Registration is open now for teens and adults interested in volunteering at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk.
Photo from the Maritime Aquarium
Registration is open now for teens and adults interested in becoming volunteers for The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. Interview sessions for potential volunteers will be held June 5 and June 13 (you need attend only one), prior to a two-day training course June 18 and 19.
— an announcement from the Maritime Aquarium
Interview sessions for potential volunteers will be held on Wednesday, June 5 and Thurs., June 13, each at 5 p.m. You need attend only one. Pre-registration is required.
Prior knowledge about marine animals isn’t necessary to be a Maritime Aquarium volunteer. That’s what will be taught in a special accelerated two-day course, which will meet on Tuesday, June 18 and Wednesday, June 19, from 1 to 6 p.m. each day. Attendance at both days of training is mandatory.
Most volunteers work as gallery ambassadors, helping Aquarium guests learn more about the represented animals of Long Island Sound, from crabs and jellyfish to seals and sharks.
“The volunteer program is vital to the mission of The Maritime Aquarium and its educational goals,” said Lisa Slinsky, assistant director of Volunteers and Community Service.
“Sharing information and passion about Long Island Sound and its marine life is crucial as we seek to excite new stewards for the Sound, the broader ocean and the global environment.”
You must be at least 15 years old to sign up. Teen volunteers must commit to at least 100 hours of service, including 10 half-day shifts during the summer season (July-Labor Day) and then one half-day shift per month September through June.
Adult volunteers must commit to four half-day shifts per month and 100 total hours of service.
Letters of recommendation and other service-award forms will be signed after completion of the 100 hours of service.
A $40 administrative fee defrays the costs of training materials and uniforms. Volunteers can receive discounts in the gift shop and café, and on many programs.
Advance registration is required for the interview sessions and volunteer training course. Get all the details about volunteering — and an application — at this web page on the Maritime Aquarium website.
Or for more information, email lslinsky@MaritimeAquarium.org or call (203) 852-0700, ext. 2225.