Youth Volunteering
If you are ages 14-18 and you love animals, the Safari Ambassador Program for teens is a unique opportunity to learn about animal husbandry and handling, peer team building and  leadership. Training through the program will equip you to assist Education staff during Park events and Outreaches by sharing information and animals with the public. The Ambassador Program is a fantastic way to begin your wildlife career!
Graduates from both programs will receive a Certificate of Completion and a reference letter for perspective colleges, universities or employers.
The Ambassador Program runs from May to May, but volunteer opportunities are available year round.
Participants must:
- Be 14 to 18 years old on June 1, 2011.
- Have an exceptional interest in animals, the environment and Wildlife Safari.
- Have excellent interpersonal skills and enjoy interacting with children and adults.
- Be willing to volunteer consistently throughout the year.
- Attend the mandatory scheduled orientation and training sessions.
- Provide your own lunch and transportation to and from Wildlife Safari during scheduled shifts.
- Pay a program fee of $100 to cover the costs of materials, uniforms, TB test and educational opportunities.
To the Parents/Guardians:
- The Ambassador Program is a commitment for the entire year, not only for the Ambassador, but also for his or her family. Cooperation, support, transportation and encouragement are needed. Please try to plan activities to allow maximum participation in the Ambassador Program.
- A limited number of applications are accepted due to space and supervisory limitations. Participants’ performance will be evaluated throughout the duration of the program. Any Ambassador volunteer not meeting the set standards may be dismissed from the program.
- Ambassador opportunities are based on availability and performance. Due to frequently changing needs and priorities, Ambassadors may be assigned to different areas during the summer.
IMPORTANT DATES
Application Deadline- May 31st
Orientation- June 12th from 1-3
Ambassador Levels
The best thing about being an Ambassador is learning first-hand how the Safari runs. During your time in the program, you will learn about animals, meet new friends, gain valuable skills, learn to interact with Safari guests and provide a valuable service to Safari! You will also have the opportunity to participate in fun and educational activities with your fellow Ambassadors, volunteers and Safari staff.
First Year Ambassadors
During your first year you will assist our Safari Education with camps, fair booths and present animal artifacts.
- Attend all classes
- Work a minimum of 1 camp/week
- Work 15 hours/month in the Education Department
- Jobs: Fairs, daily animal care, etc.
Second Year Ambassadors
During your second year you will assist our Safari Education Department with camps, fair booths and present animal artifacts. You will also begin your animal handling training.
- Attend all classes
- Work a minimum of 1 camp/week
- Train 1st year ambassadors on camp protocol
- Work a minimum of 2 shifts at the Douglas County Fair; each shift is 4 hours long
- Work a minimum of 2 shifts at another fair or parade; each shift is 4 hours long
- Work a minimum of 10 hours/month in the Education Department
- A minimum of 1 hour/week for animal handling
Third Year Ambassadors
During your third year you will assist our Safari Education with camps, fair booths and present animal artifacts. You will also continue your animal handling training and assist with training first year ambassadors.
- Attend all classes
- Work a minimum of 1 camp/week
- Train 1st year ambassadors during a camp
- Work a minimum of 2 shifts at the Douglas County Fair; each shift is 4 hours long
- Work a minimum of 2 shifts at another fair or parade; each shift is 4 hours long
- Work a minimum of 10 hours/month in the Education Department
- A minimum of 1 hour/week for animal handling
- Lead/teach 1st year ambassador classes
- Lead/teach animal handling courses
- Senior project (optional)
Download Application Here!
For more information, contact the Education Department at (541) 679-6761, x221, or email education@wildlifesafari.net |
