Scovill Zoo Volunteer Training Classes
Every year, volunteers donate thousands of hours of their time to make Scovill Zoo one of the very best in Illinois. To prepare for their important roles at the zoo, volunteers complete ~10 weeks of continuing education classes taught by zoo staff. This program allows volunteers to practice handling our animal ambassadors, learn AZA-approved guided tour messaging, and brush up on zoology and conservation topics important to the zoo. The training also ensures that team members have the tools they need to make each visitor’s experience educational and enjoyable. Even volunteers who operate the train and carousel find the classes beneficial, as they are often asked questions about the animals before and after the rides.
Opportunities range from Mobile Zoo presentations to guided tours to helping at special events like Boo at the Zoo! No previous experience required! Must be 18 years of age or older to volunteer. A background check must be completed before volunteer shifts are scheduled at the zoo.
To volunteer at Scovill Zoo, complete the Zoo Volunteer Application (PDF) on paper and return to the Scovill Zoo Office or via the form below. For more information, contact the Education and Volunteer Coordinator, Lizzie Van Ert, at 217-421-7435 or email her at evanert@decparks.com.
Zoo Volunteer Contact Information
Zoo Park Partners
Be a friend of Scovill Zoo by volunteering your time to beautify and enhance the facility! Over the years, teams from Caterpillar, Team Soy, Ameren, and ADM, for example, have helped stain decking, clean the facility, rake leaves, and staff our many fun events, like Boo at the Zoo. Please consider this short- or long-term volunteer opportunity! Call the zoo at 217-421-7435 to learn more.