The Houston Zoo offers a remarkable opportunity for teenagers to get involved in wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship through its comprehensive youth volunteer programs. As a zoo enthusiast, you’ll be excited to learn about the various options available to aspiring young conservationists.
First Year Zoo Crew Explorers
The First Year Zoo Crew Explorers program is designed for teens aged 13 to 17 who are passionate about the natural world and eager to make a difference. This four-week summer program immerses participants in the inner workings of the zoo, providing them with a unique behind-the-scenes experience.
During the program, teens will have the chance to:
- Learn about different aspects of the zoo and the conservation field
- Engage with wildlife professionals and gain valuable insights
- Mentor young kids in the Camp Zoofari summer camp
- Educate zoo visitors as a Naturalist
The program is divided into four sessions, each running from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The sessions are scheduled as follows:
| Session | Dates |
|---|---|
| 1 | June 3-June 28 |
| 2 | June 17-July 12 |
| 3 | July 1-July 26 |
| 4 | July 15-August 9 |
The cost for the summer-only program is $300, and for year-round participation, an additional $250 is required.
Advanced Programs
The Houston Zoo offers several advanced programs for teens who have completed at least one summer of the Zoo Crew Explorers program. These programs provide opportunities for deeper engagement and specialized roles within the zoo.
Junior Zookeeper
Teens in the Junior Zookeeper program assist zookeepers with daily animal care, including feeding, cleaning, and observing. This program requires a 3-week commitment during the summer.
Camp Mentor
The Camp Mentor program allows teens to help with the Camp Zoofari summer camp for kids aged 4-12. Participants assist with lessons, crafts, and camper management, also requiring a 3-week commitment during the summer.
Naturalist
As a Naturalist, teens educate zoo guests about the zoo’s animals and conservation efforts. This program also requires a 3-week commitment during the summer.
Theater
The Theater program involves teens presenting theatrical performances to educate zoo guests about animals and conservation. This program also requires a 3-week commitment during the summer.
Accommodations and Accessibility
The Houston Zoo is committed to making the Zoo Crew experience accessible to all teens, regardless of their abilities. They provide thorough training and mentoring, and accommodate special needs, including allergies, accessibility concerns, and behavioral or emotional conditions.
Contact Information
For more information about the Houston Zoo’s youth volunteer programs, teens and parents can contact the Teen Programs department at [email protected] or 713-533-6567.
Additional Resources
The Houston Zoo provides an information session video and detailed program descriptions on their website, which can be a valuable resource for those interested in the youth volunteer opportunities. Additionally, Serve for Good lists volunteer opportunities for Houston-area teens, including the Houston Zoo.
References:
– The Houston Zoo. (n.d.). Teens. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/teens/
– The Houston Zoo. (n.d.). First Year Zoo Crew Explorers. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/teens/first-year-zoo-crew-explorers/
– The Houston Zoo. (n.d.). Adult Volunteers. Retrieved from https://www.houstonzoo.org/make-memories/adults/adult-volunteers/
– Serve for Good. (n.d.). HOUSTON ZOO Houston Volunteer Opportunities. Retrieved from https://serveforgood.org/charity/houston-zoo/