Volunteering at the Zoo

The mission of the Alaska Zoo is to connect people with animals. We do this by offering education programs to the community. We rely on volunteers to fulfill this mission.

Why should you volunteer?

Volunteering at the zoo is a personally rewarding experience.
Volunteers make most of our programs and events possible.
Opportunities are varied, with exposure to both visitors and animals.
Educate the public while expanding your own horizons and knowledge.

How to get started:

Complete our Volunteer Application (PDF) and submit to hdoncaster@alaskazoo.org.
If your application is initially accepted, you will be contacted to attend an interview meeting and new volunteer zoo tour.

Volunteer Opportunities could include:

Adventure Camp assistant
Storyteller for programs
Discovery Tour Guide
Critter Table leader for events
Petting Zoo Attendant
Husbandry projects (cleaning exhibits)
Special Event booths
Cotton candy maker for events
And many more!

Basic Requirements:

Volunteer opportunities are available for ages 15 and older only.
New volunteers are required to give 5 hours in 3 out of the 4 sections (15 hours total) prior to permanent admission into the volunteer program.
The 4 sections are: Education, animal husbandry, facilities/office, events/service.
Once 15 hours are completed, you will receive a volunteer shirt and name tag.

New Opportunities: (updated as of 7/14/10)

*Our volunteer program is currently full for the summer. Our next new volunteer orientation will be in September. Feel free to email Heather for more information.*

*Monthly Animal Husbandry Volunteer* You will need the following:

1) A resume by the end of the 2nd week of the previous month.
2) Attend an interview.
3) Commit to 20 volunteer hours a week.
Let Heather know if you are interested.

Questions? Contact Heather Doncaster (Coordinator) via email at: hdoncaster@alaskazoo.org, Cell: (907) 952-6966. *If you are calling on weekdays from 8-4, please leave a message and she will return your call. Office hours are Tuesday & Wednesday 4-6, Saturday 12-5.