The success of Zoo New York depends on the support and participation of our community. We are always looking for enthusiastic, caring, hardworking, & dedicated people to participate in our volunteer program. You can help by donating your time in the following ways:
Become a Volunteer
Are you interested in volunteering at the Zoo? Submit an application. We offer volunteer orientations a few times throughout the year! Orientations are a great opportunity to learn about volunteer options, duties, and expectations. Each one will include a meet-n-greet, handbook review, and facility tour.
General Volunteers
Never underestimate the power of an individual. Our staff always welcomes the help of those who are looking for a way to contribute to the community. Duties primarily include grounds work, cleaning, gardening, and many other activities.
Do you have a special project in mind? We’d love to hear your ideas and plans!
General Volunteers may schedule participation at-will (within hour requirement parameters) after completing the application, interview, and orientation process.
The General Volunteer application is required for all volunteering experiences at the Zoo.
General Volunteer Application for Minors
Groups
Zoo New York loves welcoming groups of all ages to volunteer – from Scout troops & religious groups to corporate & military groups. The majority of these opportunities are available during the spring and summer months. Duties may include mulching, weeding, raking, painting, & other essential activities to help maintain the beauty of Zoo grounds and animal habitats.
The Zoo hosts seasonal Project days that are perfect for group volunteers. The first step to this process is contacting the volunteer coordinator at sylvan@zoonewyork.org.
Event Volunteers
We rely on volunteers to help with all of our special events. You may be asked to staff a table, host a game, manage crowds, greet visitors, or many other tasks depending on the event. Events include Brew at the Zoo, Boo at the Zoo, Earth Day, and more.
Event volunteers may be one-time participants who are not currently registered with the Volunteer Program; however, an application is still required. These volunteers are typically selected by our Guest Services and Event Manager.
Docent Program
Our Docent program is the perfect opportunity for passionate community members to provide critical support to the Zoo’s mission for science-based experiences. Docents are volunteers directly involved with educating the public about native wildlife, local conservation initiatives, and our own natural history.
Docents may participate in many ways to help guests connect to New York’s wildlife, including providing interpretive discussions, guided tours, escorting Animal Ambassadors throughout the zoo, and conducting EdZOOcation programs.
Sign Up To Be a Docent