The Houston Zoo offers an array of captivating volunteer opportunities for teens during the summer months. These programs are designed to educate, engage, and inspire the next generation of conservation champions. Whether you’re interested in animal care, educational outreach, or camp mentorship, the Houston Zoo has a summer volunteer program that’s perfect for you.
Dive into the Naturalist Experience
As a Naturalist volunteer, you’ll have the chance to educate zoo guests about the incredible animals that call the Houston Zoo home. You’ll share your knowledge and passion for conservation, helping visitors understand the importance of protecting our planet’s wildlife. With a schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., you’ll commit to three full weeks of this immersive experience.
Mentor the Next Generation at Camp Zoofari
If you love working with kids, the Camp Mentor program might be the perfect fit. You’ll assist with the Zoo’s Camp Zoofari summer camp, helping to create unforgettable experiences for young nature enthusiasts. Your schedule will be Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with a three-week commitment.
Become a Junior Zookeeper
For those with a deep fascination for animal care, the Junior Zookeeper program offers a unique opportunity. You’ll work alongside experienced zookeepers, learning the ins and outs of daily animal husbandry. Schedules vary by animal section, with the Aquatics team working Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., for three consecutive weeks, and the Birds team working Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., for three weeks.
Explore the First Year Zoo Crew
The First Year Zoo Crew Explorers program is a comprehensive four-week summer experience that immerses you in various aspects of the zoo’s operations. From Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., you’ll engage in a wide range of activities and learning opportunities.
Evening and Weekend Opportunities
While the summer programs primarily focus on weekday schedules, the Houston Zoo does offer a mandatory virtual orientation for the First Year Zoo Crew Explorers program on Saturday, May 11th. This orientation is an essential part of the program, ensuring that participants are well-prepared for their summer adventure.
Costs and Accommodations
The cost for the First Year Zoo Crew Explorers program is $300 for the summer, with an additional $250 for year-round participation. The Returning Summer Zoo Crew program has a $150 fee for the 5-week summer program and an additional $100 fee for year-round participation.
The Houston Zoo is committed to making their volunteer programs accessible to teens of all abilities. They request information on any special needs prior to participation to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience. If you have any questions or require accommodations, you can reach out to the team at [email protected] or call 713-533-6567.
Conclusion
The Houston Zoo’s summer volunteer programs offer an unparalleled opportunity for teens to immerse themselves in the world of conservation, animal care, and education. Whether you’re passionate about naturalist work, camp mentorship, or becoming a junior zookeeper, there’s a program that will ignite your curiosity and inspire you to make a difference. Embark on an unforgettable summer journey at the Houston Zoo and become a part of the next generation of wildlife champions.
References
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/teens/returning-zoo-crew/returning-summer-zoo-crew/
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/teens/
- https://serveforgood.org/charity/houston-zoo/
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/teens/first-year-zoo-crew-explorers/
- https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/adults/volunteer/