Opportunities From: Mass Audubon

Property volunteers will help care for the sanctuary by taking part in a variety of hands-on projects, including trail clearing, gardening, light maintenance, and supporting wildlife monitoring, all while enjoying time outdoors and making a meaningful, lasting impact on the land and its visitors.

Responsibilities

Maintaining and clearing trails Gardening, planting, and invasive species removal General landscaping and groundskeeping Assisting with light building and facility maintenance Cleaning and organizing outdoor spaces and work areas Supporting habitat restoration and ecological projects Preparing the property for programs or public visits Seasonal tasks like leaf cleanup, mulching, or storm cleanup

Qualifications

Interest in nature, conservation, or land stewardship Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions Willingness to perform physical tasks (walking, lifting, bending, carrying tools or materials) Prior experience with landscaping, gardening, trail work, or maintenance (helpful but not required) Comfort using basic tools (training can be provided)Ability to work cooperatively with Mass Audubon staff and other volunteersAdult aged 18 or olderSuccessful completion of a CORI/SORI background check

Schedule/Shift Information

Shifts are 1-2 hours longVolunteers are responsible for signing up for their shifts and logging their own hours after each volunteer shift in the online Volunteer Portal.

Benefits

Connect with knowledgeable staff and learn more about conservation work.Spend time outdoors in a beautiful natural setting, volunteering alongside individuals as passionate about the environment as you are!Exclusive online education programs are offered to volunteers who contribute 25 hours or more per year.

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 you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. 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.

Seashore Discovery Program Assist Volunteers help visitors collect and connect with small tidal creatures and our larger coastal ecosystem as part of our Seashore Discovery programs. Mass Audubon’s Teacher Naturalists lead the program, while volunteers set up and cleanup program materials, distribute equipment, and support participants to dip their nets into the shallow water of Sengekontacket Pond. This volunteer position is best suited for those who love our coastal habitat and sharing the joy of discovery with others, enjoy being outdoors, and are willing to pitch in and do what is needed to help nature programming run smoothly.

Responsibilities

Assist program leader with greeting participants as they arriveAssist program leader with program participant check inDistribute equipment needed for programSupport participants with using equipment following program leader instructionAssist with supplies and program materialAct as "sweep" on any program by taking up rear to make sure no one gets separated from the groupAssist program leader and participants with spotting wildlife, plants, etc.Support participants with finding and seeing wildlifeInformally share knowledge about nature subjects with participants (and staff)Help program leader collect, clean and stow program equipment

Qualifications

Enjoys spending time interacting with and educating others, who have various levels of background knowledge on the presented educational contentStrong interest, demonstrated knowledge, and enthusiasm to learn about natural history and site-specific nature and wildlife information, local conservation issues and educationMust be able to walk the trails to the waterfront and be comfortable in entering the waterAbility to work cooperatively with Mass Audubon staff and other volunteersAdult aged 18 or olderSuccessful completion of a CORI/SORI background check

Schedule/Shift Information

Shifts are 3 hours longVolunteers are asked to sign up for at least three programs sessions during the season – more than three welcome and encouraged!Volunteers are responsible for signing up for their shifts and logging their own hours after each volunteer shift in the online Volunteer Portal.

Benefits

Connect with knowledgeable staff and learn more about natural history, conservation work, and education.Spend time outdoors in a beautiful natural setting, volunteering alongside individuals as passionate about the environment as you are!Exclusive online education programs are offered to volunteers who contribute 25 hours or more per year.

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 you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. 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.

Kayak Volunteers support Felix Neck staff with guided kayak tours on Sengekontacket Pond. As a volunteer, you’ll help fit participants with gear, assist with launching and landing boats, and support a safe, welcoming experience for all throughout the trip. Kayaking is a unique way to experience this special ecosystem: we’re looking for volunteers who love to be outdoors, want to help connect others to nature through this program, and are eager to get more experience in the fields of conservation, environmental education, and outdoor recreation.

Responsibilities

Support staff with loading, unloading, launching, and landing kayaks.Support staff with packing and unpacking program equipment and materials.Support participants with life jackets and paddles.Actively kayak for approximately 1.5-2 hours alongside the group.Keep the group together during the tour, acting as “sweep” so no one is left behind.Offer assistance to participants as needed.Proactively communicate with staff if there is a concern or issue.Maintain positive and encouraging energy throughout the program.

Qualifications

Comfort and experience on the water and in a kayak, with a level of fitness to kayak for at least 2 hours.Patient, friendly, and enthusiastic about working with members of the public, who may be new to kayaking.Aged 18 or older.Successful completion of a CORI/SORI background check.Some marine/bird knowledge is helpful but not required.

Schedule/Shift Information

Shifts are 3 hours long.Volunteers are asked to sign up for at least three programs sessions during the season – more than three welcome and encouraged!Volunteers are responsible for signing up for their shifts and logging their own hours after each volunteer shift in the online Volunteer Portal.

Benefits

Connect with knowledgeable staff and learn more about natural history, conservation work, and education.Spend time outdoors in a beautiful natural setting, volunteering alongside individuals as passionate about the environment as you are!Exclusive online education programs are offered to volunteers who contribute 25 hours or more per year.

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 you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. 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.

 [KL1]what are the dates the kayak programs run?

 [KL2]would make the format line up with the marine discovery volunteer above

 

Love Felix Neck & Mass Audubon? Love nature & people? Do you want to help staff welcome visitors? Visitor Services volunteering is a great opportunity for you to get involved in your local Mass Audubon wildlife sanctuary and local community by meeting, engaging, and getting people excited about Felix Neck and everything we have to offer here.
Responsibilities:  

Offering assistance with information about the sanctuary, visitor center, programs, events, the surrounding area, and Mass Audubon in general, making referrals as appropriate to Mass Audubon's websites.  Checking membership status and recording visitation statistics. Distributing sanctuary maps, information, and trail suggestions. Answering phone calls and providing information, guidance, and direction. Collecting and processing admission fees, if needed. Answering general nature-related questions or making referrals for more information. Understanding and introducing visitors to the benefits of Mass Audubon membership.  Processing new memberships and assisting with renewals, if needed.  Assisting in the gift shop and processing gift shop sales, if needed.  Using a Point-of-Sale system, cash register or credit card machine for sales and admissions, if needed.  Helping to keep the visitor center, lobby, front desk, and shop neat and organized.

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 you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. 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.

Felix Neck Wildlife Sanctuary offers a variety of programming - kayaking, youth climate leadership events, public programs, family activities, accessible programs and more!  We are looking for ongoing and flexible volunteer support to assist staff with these programs. This volunteer position is a great fit for someone with a flexible weekday schedule (especially during the summer months), a background in education and/or natural history, a willingness to do what is needed to support public programs, and a love of sharing nature with others.

Responsibilities

Set up and break down of program/lesson materials Publicizing programs by dropping off marketing materials at various locations Assisting with demonstrations and hands-on activities Answering participant questions Supporting participant involvement in the program

Qualifications

Enjoys spending time interacting with and educating others, who have various levels of background knowledge on birds and nature Some knowledge of or training in natural history Adult aged 18 or older Successful completion of a CORI/SORI background check

Schedule/Shift Information

Volunteers are asked to commit to at least three program sessions during their volunteer term – more than three welcome and encouraged! Volunteers are responsible for signing up for their shifts and logging their own hours after each volunteer shift in the online Volunteer Portal.

Benefits

Connect with knowledgeable staff and learn more about natural history, conservation work, and education. Spend time outdoors in a beautiful natural setting, volunteering alongside individuals as passionate about the environment as you are! Help adults and children learn about and take action to protect nature. Exclusive online education programs are offered to volunteers who contribute 25 hours or more per year. Volunteer ID cards are issued to volunteers who contribute 50 hours or more per year. The Volunteer ID card provides free admission, for yourself and immediate family, to all of Mass Audubon’s Wildlife Sanctuaries and a 15% discount at all Mass Audubon gift shops (excluding online). It also allows you to take advantage of our Reciprocity Program which grants free or discounted access to participating area museums and attractions.

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 you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. 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.

Butterfly Garden Volunteers tend to our wildlife gardens, which provide vital, year-round habitat to bees, butterflies, birds, and other important pollinators.

Volunteers will have the opportunity to get their hands dirty, steward this important gathering and teaching space at the sanctuary, and learn more about gardening. Volunteers will weed, prune, rake, and plant – tasks vary depending on the week and season. Help our gardens thrive and serve as a strong example to visitors of how we can all steward natural spaces – large and small – for the benefit of both people and wildlife.

This is a drop-in volunteer opportunity. Walk-ins are welcome, and no ongoing commitment or prior experience is required.

How to Register

To sign up to volunteer, click the “Respond” button. You can then sign in using your existing volunteer account with Mass Audubon, or, if this is your first time using the volunteer system, you will be prompted to create a new account before signing up. You will then be prompted to select the day(s) you want to volunteer. Make sure to click the Submit Opportunity Response button on the next page and look for the green banner – and an email - indicating you have completed the whole process.

Bird Walk Volunteers support visitors to find and identify local birds on a Mass Audubon-led birding programs at Felix Neck. Volunteers may also assist the program leader with greeting visitors, teaching first-timers how to use binoculars, and sharing information about birds. This role is best suited for those who want to share their love of birds with others, with the goal of supporting individuals to connect with, learn about, and protect the natural world.

Responsibilities

Attend the full 2-hour birding program regularly, held every Thursday from 8:00–10:00 am, running June 18 through September 17.Support Mass Audubon staff with setup, distribution, and collection of loaner binocularsSupport participants to use binoculars and spot and identify birdsAct as a “sweep” during the walk to make sure everyone stays with the group

Qualifications

Experienced birder with ability to identify common speciesEnjoys spending time interacting with and educating others, who have various levels of background knowledge on birds and natureAdult aged 18 or olderSuccessful completion of a CORI/SORI background check

Schedule/Shift Information

Volunteers are asked to sign up for at least two programs. Volunteers are responsible for signing up for their shifts and logging their own hours after each volunteer shift in the online Volunteer Portal.

Benefits

Spend time birding in a beautiful natural setting with others who are as passionate as you are!Help others learn about and connect with birds, to inspire action to protect the natural world.Exclusive online education programs are offered to volunteers who contribute 25 hours or more per year.

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 you would be an excellent fit for this volunteer role. 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.

As a Trail Steward volunteer, you will help monitor and maintain Felix Neck’s trail system and report any issues, such as fallen trees or rough trail conditions, that you encounter. Felix Neck’s trails meander through woodlands, fields, and along shorelines and, while relatively flat, have roots and boardwalks to traverse along the way. Volunteers will have the opportunity to get to know the sanctuary's trail system well and observe changes throughout the seasons.

Trail Stewards play a key role in helping Mass Audubon maintain safe, welcoming, and pleasant trails for visitors by providing basic trail maintenance and alerting staff of priority areas to address along the trails. This volunteer position is a great fit for someone who loves spending time outdoors, hiking, and making trails and natural spaces both welcoming for visitors and protected for wildlife. It is also a great fit for someone looking for a flexible volunteer opportunity to do on their own schedule.

Responsibilities

As a volunteer, you will be responsible for:

Hiking along trails on your own schedule when the sanctuary is open and submitting a report to staff with your findings Clipping intrusive brush and branches, moving small-to-medium sticks and debris, and/or removing trash along trails as needed Entering the hours you volunteered in our online volunteer portal with a phone or computer

Requirements

Submit and successfully clear CORI/SORI background checkBe age 18 or older or always accompanied by parent/guardian when volunteering   Commit to: Responsibly using the provided Trail Steward equipment and alert Mass Audubon staff if any equipment needs replacing Demonstrating and modeling responsible behavior on trails

Safety 

Maintaining a safe work environment is a priority of Mass Audubon. Volunteers should dress in appropriate outdoor clothing for the weather and sturdy shoes and bring a snack and water if you plan to be out on the trails for an extended period of time. Additional safety will be covered in the training. 

Schedule

Trail Stewards can volunteer by hiking the trails at any time the sanctuary is open; dawn to dusk. Volunteers are asked to walk the trails at least once a month. Trail Stewards offers a flexible and independent volunteer experience, but there will also be the opportunity to collaborate with other Trail Stewards and schedule times to work together.

Next Steps

To express interest in this volunteer position, please click the “Respond” button and in the Response Notes, include a few sentences about why you are interested in this role and why you’d be a great fit. Make sure to click the “Submit Opportunity Response” button at the end to complete the process. Our volunteer coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.

Our Animal Care Volunteers support the health and wellbeing of our Nature Center animal ambassadors who help connect visitors to local wildlife. These animals play an important role in programs that inspire curiosity and wildlife protection. Volunteers in this role assist staff in maintaining clean, enriching habitats and ensuring animals receive consistent, attentive daily care.  

Animal Care Volunteers’ responsibilities may include:  

Cleaning and maintaining enclosures and tanks 

Maintaining feed worm system 

Care and feeding of marine life  

Care and feeding of turtles and snake 

Assistance in handling some animals 

Making, distributing, and observing enrichment items for the animals

 Availability: At least once per week, year-round  

Qualifications: 

Minimum age of 18 

Comfortable around snakes and turtles 

Interest in wildlife and concern for the environment 

Ability to work with others and independently 

Timeliness and Dependability 

Can commit to a consistent weekly schedule

How to Apply

To express interest in this volunteer position, please click the “Respond” button and in the Response Notes, include a few sentences about why you are interested in this role and why you’d be a great fit. Make sure to click the “Submit Opportunity Response” button at the end to complete the process. Our volunteer coordinator will reach out to share more about the program and next steps.