The Houston Zoo Zoo Crew is a dynamic program designed to engage teenagers aged 13-17 in the world of wildlife conservation and zoo operations. As a Zoo Crew member, participants have the opportunity to immerse themselves in various roles, from animal care to educational outreach, all while contributing to the zoo’s mission of preserving and protecting the natural world.
Requirements to Participate in the Rwanda International Travel Opportunity
To be eligible for the Rwanda international travel opportunity with the Houston Zoo Zoo Crew, there are a few key requirements that must be met:
- Age: Participants must be at least 15 years old by July 28, 2024.
- Zoo Crew Membership: Participants must be a Zoo Crew member in good standing.
- Summer Participation: Participants must participate in the 2024 Summer Zoo Crew.
- Application: Participants must complete an online application and be selected to participate.
Roles Available for Returning Zoo Crew Members
For those who have already experienced the Zoo Crew program, there are a variety of roles available to returning members, each offering unique opportunities for growth and development:
- Junior Zookeeper: Roles in animal care, such as Aquatics Junior Zookeeper and Elephants Junior Zookeeper, allow teens to assist zoo staff with daily operations and learn about animal husbandry.
- Naturalist: Returning members can take on the role of Naturalist, educating guests about the zoo’s animals and the importance of conservation efforts.
- Camp Mentor: Experienced Zoo Crew members can mentor young children in the Camp Zoofari summer camp, sharing their knowledge and passion for the natural world.
- Teen Leadership: Returning members can take on leadership roles, mentoring other Zoo Crew participants, and providing valuable insights to improve the program.
Applying for the Alban-Heiser Conservation Award
The Alban-Heiser Conservation Award is a prestigious recognition for Zoo Crew members who have made significant contributions to the protection of Texas wildlife and their habitats. To apply for this award, the following criteria must be met:
- Eligibility: Zoo Crew members in good standing are eligible to apply.
- Contribution: Applicants must have made a notable contribution to the protection of Texas wildlife and their wild spaces.
- Alignment with Houston Zoo Initiatives: Actions must align with the Houston Zoo’s initiatives to reduce threats to local Texas wildlife.
- Initiation and Leadership: Actions must be initiated and led by the teen applying for the award.
- Application Process: Eligible Zoo Crew members must fill out an online application, which will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Program Fees and Dates
The Houston Zoo Zoo Crew program offers both summer-only and year-round options, with the following fee structure:
- Summer Only: $200 for returning Zoo Crew members and $300 for first-year Zoo Crew Explorers.
- Year-Round: Additional $250 for returning Zoo Crew members and $250 for first-year Zoo Crew Explorers.
- Dates: Various sessions are available for Zoo Crew Explorers, with specific dates for each session.
Accommodations and Accessibility
The Houston Zoo is committed to making the Zoo Crew experience accessible to all teens, regardless of their abilities. Accommodations can be made for special needs, including allergies, accessibility concerns, and behavioral or emotional conditions. Participants are encouraged to inform the zoo of any special considerations prior to participation.
Contact Information
For any questions or to request accommodations, you can reach out to the Houston Zoo at [email protected] or call 713-533-6567.