Salisbury, MD – The Salisbury Zoo is seeking volunteers, and the next set of docent training sessions begins Tuesday, Feb. 28.
Salisbury Zoo docents serve as volunteer educators for Zoo guests that help with education programs and special events. No experience is necessary; all the necessary training will be provided.
The first session of docent training for 2023 will take place on Tuesdays from Feb. 28-March 28. Docents must attend all five sessions, held from 6-8 p.m. each Tuesday.
“We are excited to welcome new docents to the Salisbury Zoo with training starting this month,” said Education Curator Mary Poudel. “It’s a great way for members of our community to give back, learn and share their knowledge.”
Docents are required to complete the in-person training sessions, online training and associated homework and quizzes. They must serve 50 hours each year, including 12 hours of continuing education. There is a $50 fee to offset the cost of the shirt and name badge.
Prospective docents can show up to the first training session with the completed registration form and $50 fee. Since the zoo will be closed to the public, they can gather at the Zoo’s East Gate shortly before 6 p.m. to be let in.
Docents must be at least 16 years old. Teens ages 13-15 interested in volunteering can apply for the Zoo Crew program.
Download the 2023 docent registration form at www.SalisburyZoo.org.
###
About the Salisbury Zoo: The Salisbury Zoo, located in Salisbury, Maryland, was founded in 1954 when some animals were placed on permanent exhibition in the City Park. The Zoo’s present form resulted from improvements made in the 1970s. The Zoo now provides naturalistic enclosures for species native to North, Central and South America. The Zoo’s policy is maintained by the Salisbury Zoo Commission, Inc. whose members are appointed by the Salisbury City Council. The Zoo is funded in-part by the Salisbury Zoo Commission and by the City of Salisbury.
