Volunteer with the Dayton Society of Natural History!
When you volunteer at a Dayton Society of Natural History location like the Boonshoft or SunWatch, you join a team of volunteers who represent multiple ages, interests, and areas of expertise. The Dayton Society of Natural History has year-round opportunities for individuals to contribute to meaningful projects and get hands-on while interacting with the community—all while having fun and meeting new people.
Follow the link below to find short summaries for all of our volunteer opportunities at Boonshoft and SunWatch. Volunteers receive a basic orientation and receive training for their specific position as they work alongside staff in their assignments. All applicants must meet the position requirements, submit an online application, and submit any extra paperwork required.
Teen Summer Volunteer Applications are now CLOSED!
The Education department at the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery welcomes young scientists and educators to be a part of our Teen Summer Volunteer Program.
Teen volunteers will join the education team for a fun and engaging summer that aims to build skills in public speaking and informal science instruction. Volunteers will learn to lead educational experiences in our major exhibits, such as the Discovery Zoo and Ancient Egypt, and lead science games, demos, and activities at the Discovery Table. They will also join in and assist our education team around large program presentations and summer camp support.
Below you will find some valuable information that outlines some of the program details and how to get started. Please make sure to read and review all the details to make sure you meet the expected application requirements and duties.
Program Length and Hours
This is a 60-hour program that takes place over the course of 10 weeks starting on May 29th and running to August 4th. Volunteers will be scheduled for a single 6-hour shift on a specific day of the week that will serve as their main volunteer day for the length of the program.
Age Requirements
All volunteers at must be between the ages of 12 and 17 by the start date of the program on May 29th.
Application Requirements
- Applications will open on February 15th and will close on April 15th. Interview requests will be sent out after applications are reviewed.
- All volunteers must complete the online application and choose the Teen Summer Volunteer position on the application.
- In addition, all applicants must submit a letter of recommendation to volunteer@boonshoftmuseum.org that will accompany their application. This letter must be written by someone other than an immediate family member. We recommend a schoolteacher, coach, counselor, or a friend of the family.
- Applications received after the closing date, missing their letter or recommendation, or an incomplete application may not be accepted.
Questions? Get in Touch with Us!
If you have questions about the opportunities or group opportunities, please submit an inquiry form and our team will reach out to you via email or phone.
Questions can also be directed to volunteer@boonshoftmuseum.org
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Are you a current volunteer who needs to update their online profile? Email Volunteer@BoonshoftMuseum.org for a special link