The Toledo Zoo - Exhibit Guide Program

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Exhibit Guide Program

This is a brief overview of the Exhibit Guide Program, which is a seasonal education-based volunteer position for adults ages 18 and over. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Volunteer Program Staff at (419)385-5721 ext. 2045 or volunteer@toledozoo.org.

Program Description

The Exhibit Guide Program supports the Zoo’s educational and interpretive needs in specific areas within the Zoo. Exhibit Guides will be needed from April – September and will perform a variety of functions, including, but not limited to:

Educating the public about our animals, including: the biology and life cycle of these animals; conservation issues, including an emphasis on everyday ways that people can help; and related topics.
Supporting various features of the Nature’s Neighborhood exhibit, including the contact yard, workshop, stream and other interactive areas.
Answering visitor questions and addressing any other visitor needs.
Maintaining a flow of visitors through the exhibits in a timely and friendly manner,
Monitoring the behavior of the viewing public to ensure the safety of the animals and the visitors as well as promote a positive viewing experience for everyone.

Training

Exhibit Guides will receive an orientation covering general Zoo policies, as well as the benefits of volunteering at the Toledo Zoo. In addition, Exhibit Guides will attend a comprehensive training program identifying the major topics of importance related to the exhibit(s) they will assist with, as well as a walk-through of the exhibits. Finally, Exhibit Guides will receive basic training on interpretive programming and informal public interaction. These training sessions will be offered throughout March and April, with both weekday and weekend offerings.

Time Commitment

Exhibit Guides are required to:

Complete the required training program.
Give at least forty (40) hours of service, including the training process, between March 1 and September 30.
Schedule volunteer time in advance in the Program Scheduling Notebook.
Inform the Volunteer Department if you can not make a scheduled shift.

Thank you for your interest in the Zoo’s Summer Naturalist Program!
We look forward to seeing you around the Zoo!

Download a Volunteer Application