Family Volunteers
Families who would like to volunteer together may do so as Conservation Encounter Volunteers! They will engage with the public to raise funds for conservation and educate guests about the zoo, its animals, and conservation mission. Volunteers assist with and manage zoo encounters, including the Butterflies in Bloom exhibit, giraffe feeding, sloth bear feeding, and Zoo Farm.
Family Zoo Ambassador Requirements
- Up to two children (ages 10+) may volunteer side-by-side with their parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
- Commitment to three (3) shifts per month, April – October.
- Shift Times:
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- Tuesday – Sunday, 11:00AM – 1:45PM (Giraffe)
- Wednesday – Sunday, 10:00AM – 1:15PM (Sloth Bear/Farm)
- Butterfly shift times will vary.
- Some evening shifts may also be available.
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- Complete approximately five (5) hours of self-paced, online, onboarding modules.
- Attend a three-hour in-person training session.
- Parents and child(ren) must attend.
- Pay a $50 volunteer fee per family member.
- Note: Financial assistance is available. Please contact the Volunteer Services Office for more details.
- Abide by all policies in the Volunteer Handbook.
- Enjoy working with people of all ages.
- Desire to further develop customer service, public speaking, and teaching skills as a family (training provided).
- Interested in educating the public about wildlife conservation.
- Must submit a negative TB test for each participating family member at own expense annually.
- Must be willing to submit to a Federal background check if deemed necessary by Zoo Boise staff.
Community & Group Volunteer Opportunities
We depend on volunteers to provide a fun, educational, and conservation-driven experience for each and every person that comes to Zoo Boise.
Adult Volunteering Options Are Available
No prior animal experience required, but a passion for wildlife and conservation is!