Ever wonder what it would be like to work in a zoo? Do we have an opportunity for you!

We engage volunteers in all areas of zoo operations. If you are serious about participating in and supporting the Jacksonville Zoo's conservation, education and recreation goals, then we need you.

The Zoo needs volunteers from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. each night of the event. Individuals and groups are encouraged to participate. Spooktacular volunteers must be 15 or older and attend a training session in the Education Campus at the Zoo.

Spooktacular Trainings - please choose one of the following sessions:

October 6          6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
October 15        6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
October 17        10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

We also need help carving the hundreds of pumpkins that line the path each year. Pumpkin carvers must be 14 or older. Pumpkin painters, scoopers and helpers must be 10 or older with adult supervision.

We appreciate your support. If you are interested in volunteering or would like more information, please contact the volunteer office at (904) 757-4463, ext. 176 or lemondsm@jacksonvillezoo.org.

**If you are interested in our regular volunteer program please fill out the application below. Please note that applications will not be reviewed until November. Please consider getting started by volunteering for Spooktacular.

Adult and Special Event Volunteer Application

The Teen Volunteer Program accepts new volunteers once a year in April. Applications are available starting in December and are due April 1st. Teenage volunteers who are interested in helping ONLY with special events must fill out the application above.

PLEASE NOTE: The above application does not enroll teens in the Teen Volunteer Program. To receive that application, teens must contact the Volunteer Coordinator directly at (904) 757-4463, ext. 176 or by e-mail.

General Volunteer Information

• Volunteers are needed to educate varied audiences about the natural world, teach conservation messages, beautify our grounds, assist our guests in various areas of the park, input data, lend a hand in our animal care areas, answer questions, assist with trains and enhance our guests' experiences.
• You provide the interest and enthusiasm, and we will provide the training. Scheduling is flexible. Volunteers receive special discounts, free admission, newsletters and special programs only available to employees and volunteers. Take this opportunity to meet others who share your interests in the animal kingdom. 
• New Adult Volunteer Orientations are held at the Pepsico Foundation Education Campus.
• Volunteer opportunities are available for both adults (age 18 and up) and teens (age 15 and up). Contact the Volunteer Office for the Teen Volunteer Application.
• Or, is your group or family looking for a community service project? We may have a special project that may suit your needs and ours.
• Note: As of October 1, 2009, there will be a $15* application fee due at orientation. This non-refundable fee covers a criminal background check, volunteer t-shirt and name badge.

*$15 application fee does not apply to Spooktacular volunteers, as these volunteers do not need to fill out an application to volunteer for Spooktacular.

Please call the Volunteer Office at (904) 757-4463 extension 176 for more information or e-mail at volunteer@jacksonvillezoo.org.

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