The Bronx Zoo, part of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), offers a unique volunteer program that connects, develops, and advances young people from low-income communities in their professional journeys. This program, known as the WCS Career Lattice, is the largest employer of young adults in the Bronx, providing valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The WCS Career Lattice: Empowering Youth through Volunteering
The WCS Career Lattice is a comprehensive program that aims to support and nurture the next generation of conservation leaders. Through this initiative, the Bronx Zoo offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for youth and young adults, allowing them to gain hands-on experience, develop essential skills, and explore potential career paths in the field of wildlife conservation.
Connecting with Local Communities
The WCS Career Lattice begins by reaching out to young people in local, low-income communities through strategic partnerships and outreach efforts. This connection phase is crucial in identifying and engaging with individuals who may not have had previous exposure to the opportunities available at the Bronx Zoo.
Developing Skills and Knowledge
Once connected, the program focuses on developing the skills and knowledge of the young volunteers. Through workshops, support services, and skill-building activities, the Bronx Zoo equips its volunteers with the necessary tools to succeed in their roles and beyond. This includes training in conservation education, science communication, and professional development.
Advancing Careers and Leadership
The final phase of the WCS Career Lattice is the advancement of the young volunteers. The program provides leadership training and tiered professional opportunities, allowing the volunteers to progress in their careers and take on more responsibility within the Bronx Zoo and the broader WCS network.
Volunteer Opportunities at the Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities for youth and young adults, catering to various interests and skill levels.
Youth Volunteers
The Bronx Zoo trains over 400 youth volunteers annually, empowering them to facilitate free, educational, and advocacy-related activities with zoo and aquarium visitors. These volunteers gain valuable experience in conservation education and science communication, while also earning over 100 hours of community service.
Internship Opportunities
The Bronx Zoo offers more than 30 different internship opportunities across its five New York City parks. These learning opportunities serve as gateways to STEM and conservation careers, providing hands-on experience and exposure to various aspects of the zoo’s operations.
Support and Benefits for Bronx Zoo Volunteers
The Bronx Zoo recognizes the importance of supporting and nurturing its volunteers, and as such, it offers a range of resources and benefits to ensure their success.
WCS Youth Job, Internship, and Volunteering Expo
The Bronx Zoo hosts an annual interactive event where youth can learn about various positions within the WCS parks, connect with hiring managers, and attend employment workshops. This event serves as a valuable networking and career exploration opportunity for the volunteers.
Skill-building Workshops and Career Talk Series
The Bronx Zoo provides its youth volunteers, interns, and part-time employees with opportunities for focused training and career exploration through a robust suite of skill-building workshops and a career talk series featuring professionals in diverse roles.
Monthly Digital Newsletter
The Bronx Zoo maintains a strong connection with its past and present volunteers through a monthly digital newsletter. This newsletter highlights local events, employment opportunities at the WCS and like-minded organizations, and other valuable information for the volunteer community.
Conclusion
The Bronx Zoo’s volunteer program, through the WCS Career Lattice, is a shining example of how zoos can positively impact their local communities. By connecting, developing, and advancing young people from low-income areas, the Bronx Zoo is not only fostering the next generation of conservation leaders but also providing valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth. For those interested in making a difference in the world of wildlife conservation, the Bronx Zoo’s volunteer program is an excellent place to start.
References:
– https://bronxzoo.com/teens/wcs-youth-jive
– https://bronxzoo.com/volunteering
– https://bronxzoo.com/learn/youth