Join Zoo New York for our Season Opener on May 3rd!

Thompson Park Conservancy test page
Thompson Park Conservancy test page
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Volunteer at the Zoo

The success of Zoo New York depends on the support and participation of our community. We are always looking for enthusiastic, caring, hardworking, & dedicated people to participate in our volunteer program. You can help by donating your time and talents in many ways. Scroll down for a calendar of volunteer opportunities, applications, and more information.


For all volunteer questions and enrollment, please contact Leanne Frazee <volunteers@zoonewyork.org>.

Become a Volunteer

 Are you interested in volunteering at the Zoo?  Submit an application.  We offer volunteer orientations a few times throughout the year!  Orientations are a great opportunity to learn about volunteer options, duties, and expectations. Each one will include a meet-n-greet, handbook review, and facility tour. 

General Volunteers

 Never underestimate the power of an individual. Our staff always welcomes the help of those who are looking for a way to contribute to the community. Duties primarily include grounds work, cleaning, gardening, and many other activities.


Do you have a special project in mind? We’d love to hear your ideas and plans!General Volunteers may schedule participation at-will (within hour requirement parameters) after completing the application, interview, and orientation process.


The General Volunteer application is required for all volunteering experiences at the Zoo. 

Groups

Zoo New York loves welcoming groups of all ages to volunteer – from Scout troops & religious groups to corporate & military groups. The majority of these opportunities are available during the spring and summer months. Duties may include mulching, weeding, raking, painting, & other essential activities to help maintain the beauty of Zoo grounds and animal habitats.

The Zoo hosts seasonal Project days that are perfect for group volunteers.  The first step to this process is contacting the volunteer coordinator, Leanne Frazee at <volunteers@zoonewyork.org>.

Event Volunteers

We rely on volunteers to help with all of our special events. You may be asked to staff a table, host a game, manage crowds, greet visitors, or many other tasks depending on the event. Events include Brew at the Zoo, Boo at the Zoo, Earth Day, and more.

Event volunteers may be one-time participants who are not currently registered with the Volunteer Program; however, an application is still required.  

EdZOOcator Program

Our Education Ambassador program, formerly the Docent program, is a perfect opportunity for passionate community members to provide critical support to the Zoo’s mission for science-based experiences.

EdZOOcators (Education Ambassadors) are volunteers directly involved with educating the public about native wildlife, local conservation initiatives, and our own natural history among other topics.

They can participate in many ways to help guests connect to New York’s wildlife, including providing interpretive discussions, guided tours, escorting Animal Ambassadors throughout the zoo, and conducting EdZOOcation programs. If you are interested in signing up for our program please download our form below.

EdZOOcator PROGRAM APPLICATION (pdf)

Download

Volunteer Application (pdf)

Download

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

April 26

April 26

April 26

Spring Cleanup

Grab a rake, a bucket, and a friend! Zoo New York needs YOUR help getting the grounds spruced up for our busy season! We're seeking help with raking, gardening, tree trimming, and general beautification.

11-3

May 3

April 26

April 26

Season Kickoff

Zoo New York will need volunteers to work as barn attendants/goat sitters and help at craft, activity, and education tables.

10-5

May 17

April 26

May 17

Garden Adoption Kickoff

Zoo New York will need volunteers to work as door greeters, gift shop assistants, gardening assistants, lawn games attendants, and table attendants for crafts, activities, zoo programs and biofacts.

10-5

Thank you for Your Interest in Volunteering

Copyright © 2023 Zoo New York - All Rights Reserved.

Guest Services - 315-782-6180

Fax - 315-782-6192

Address: 1 Thompson Park, Watertown, NY 13601

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