Become a Volunteer at the Erie Zoo
The Erie Zoo welcomes caring and enthusiastic individuals that wish to share their passion for animals and conservation.
Volunteers play an important role in supporting the Erie Zoo's mission by positively engaging guests, inspiring their connection with animals and plants and motivating them to conservation actions.
Who Volunteers?
Our Adult Volunteer Program is for individuals ages 18 and older with the ability to pass a background check, commit to 40 yearly hours or more, and happily interact with our guests at the Zoo. We do not accept individuals seeking court-ordered service hours, and at this time we cannot accept international applicants.
Our Teen Volunteer Program (EdZooCrew) is for all individuals ages 14 to 17 years old, who are mature and responsible, with the ability to commit to 40 yearly hours or more, and comfortably interact with our guests. We do not accept individuals seeking court-ordered service hours.
Why Volunteer?
- Make a difference for wildlife and conservation
- Meet like-minded volunteers and make new friends
- Flexible schedule
- Receive a sense of satisfaction and pride in the experience you help create for others
- Opportunities to participate in continuing education programs at the zoo
- Build leadership skills
- Opportunities to gain valuable customer service and public communication skills
- Earn school community service hours
- Gain volunteer experience and build your college resume
- Free family zoo membership after 100 hours of volunteer service in one calendar year
- Receive a discount on food and retail items at the Erie Zoo
- Recognition for your service
EdZooCrew Teen Volunteer Program (ages 14-17)
Apply Year round. Turn in completed Teen Volunteer Application.
EdZooCrew training is offered once a month March- June. You must attend a training session prior to volunteering.
EdZooCrew Volunteers assist in Children's Zoo with animal encounter yards, face painting, and crafts. They also assist with special events, classes, camps, birthday parties, activities, educational booths and more.
Adult Volunteer Program (ages 18 & older)
Apply Year round. Turn in completed Adult Volunteer Application with your completed background clearances.
Volunteer training is offered mainly in the spring and then on an as-needed basis. You must attend a training session prior to volunteering. Depending on volunteer assignment, there may be additional training required.
Adult can assist with special events, classes, camps, birthday parties, gardens, animal diets preparation, animal enrichment, ice guard (must be age 21 and older to be an ice guard), Children's Zoo, and more.
ZooBOO Volunteer (Ages 14 and older) Accepting Application from August through September 2024
Must attend a training session before volunteering. See details on the application below.
ZooBoo Volunteer Application
Ice Guard Volunteer at the Flo Fabrizio Ice Center
Requirements:
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Must have background clearances.
- Must be an experienced ice skater.
- Must be available to volunteer during Public Skate Hours.
- Must be able to speak with the public.
Please turn in your completed background clearances and Adult Volunteer Application to the Erie Zoo Office Monday-Friday 8am-4pm.
For questions about volunteering, please contact the Volunteer Department at hugla@eriezoo.org, or phone 814-864-4091 extension 1123
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Erie Zoo!