About This Volunteer Position
As an Education Programs Volunteer, you will...
Assist experienced naturalists/educators who lead youth and family audience nature learning experiences at schools, sanctuaries and other natural areas.
Help Mass Audubon in achieving our goal of helping youth and families connect with nature and learn how to protect nature now and for future generations.
This volunteer position is a great fit for someone who ...
Enjoys interacting with the public and sharing their passion for nature experiences and conservation.
You will have the opportunity to ...
Spend time learning with and assisting experienced naturalists/educators.
Meet and interact with people who share your interests.
Learn more about the natural world, conservation science, ecological stewardship.
Responsibilities
As a volunteer, you may assist the program leader with...
Greeting participants as they arrive.
Checking in program participants.
Distributing equipment to program participants.
Supporting participants with using equipment following program leader instruction Serving as “sweep" on programs, taking up rear to ensure no one gets separated from the group.
Assisting program leader and participants with spotting wildlife, plants, etc.
Informally share knowledge about nature subjects with participants and staff.
Volunteers may also be asked to ...
Assist program leader with loading and unloading supplies and program material; training will be provided.
Assist program leader with collecting, cleaning, and stowing program equipment.
Qualifications
A well-qualified volunteer will have...
An interest in sharing your love of nature and conservation with youth and/or families.
Personal experience with bird watching, hiking, etc.
A general knowledge of local plants and animals and interest in learning more.
This volunteer position is suitable for...
Adults aged 18 and older
Requirements
Background Checks: CORI and SORI background checks are required for all volunteers
Physical: Walking and standing on uneven terrain in a variety of weather conditions (sun, heat, light rain, etc.) during nature walks, birding programs, and hikes.
Equipment: Mass Audubon will provide all program specific equipment. The volunteer is responsible for personal clothing and footwear.
Time Commitment: Ability to confirm and commit to assisting scheduled programs. Programs range in length from 1-3 hours and volunteer would need to be available for the duration of the program and approximately 30 minutes before and after the program time.
Tracking Hours: Volunteers agree to log their completed volunteer hours in our online volunteer portal. This can be done on a personal phone, computer, or tablet. Training on how to enter hours will be provided as part of volunteer orientation.
Safety
Maintaining a safe work environment is a priority of Mass Audubon. Volunteers should dress in long pants/sleeves, wear study, closed-toed shoes, and bring their own snacks and water. Any additional safety training required for this position will be provided for volunteers.
Schedule/Shift Information
Volunteer shifts are posted and shared with volunteers for each season of the year and may occasionally be subject to change due to weather or other program scheduling needs.
Next Steps
To express interest in this opportunity, click the "Respond" button. In the "Response Notes," share in a few sentences why you are interested and why this is a great volunteer role for you. Please note that this step is only to express interest in this opportunity. A volunteer coordinator will follow up with you about the next steps, which will include a brief conversation and a background check before you begin volunteering.
