The Zoo Teen program at Potter Park Zoo is a volunteer opportunity which allows youth, ages 13-17, the chance to be a part of the daily operation of the zoo! Zoo Teens must have the ability to complete activities independently, a positive attitude, and willingness to engage in a team environment. Share your love of animals and the natural world while spending time at the zoo this summer!
The Zoo Teen program strives to work with individuals of all abilities. Please contact Marie Benner to discuss reasonable accommodations at mbenner@ingham.org or 517-342-2769.
Program Opportunities
- Assist with Zookambi Summer Camp
- Engage with the public at our Conservation Education Stations
- Assist zookeeper staff in the Contact Yard (goats)
- Learn from zookeepers about what it’s like to work at a zoo!
Additional information about year-round program opportunities, including requirements and applications, will be given at the end of the summer season.
Requirements
- Access to reliable transportation to and from Potter Park Zoo
- Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions and engage with guests of all ages
- Must be willing to obtain a tuberculosis test for animal care shifts (goat yard & zookeeper shadow)
- Commit to a minimum of 40 hours of service from June-August
- Commit to attend orientation and all mandatory training dates
- Training dates count toward hour minimum
- Complete and submit required application and documentation, and must be willing to participate in a group interview
- Teens must agree to abide by all safety regulations and the volunteer code of conduct
Program Fee
The Zoo Teen Program requires a fee of $50 to cover the cost the program, including shirts, training materials, nametag, and other supplies. This fee is payable at the time of orientation, and not at the time of application. Scholarships are available. Please contact Marie Benner at mbenner@ingham.org or 517-342-2769 for more information.
Application Process
Applications open in the winter and teens must submit required documents, including a resume. Teens are welcome to submit their own resume, or create one with the template provided. All teens that apply will participate in a group interview, and accepted teens will be required to attend orientation and mandatory trainings. Parents are encouraged to attend orientation.
Orientation will be held Wednesday, May 28, from 5 – 7:30pm and Saturday, May 31, from 1pm – 3:30pm. First year Zoo Teens only need to attend one session.
APPLY NOW!
Please send your resume to Marie Benner at mbenner@ingham.org in addition to submitting an application form. If you do not have a resume, you are welcome to create one using this template: RESUME TEMPLATE
Zoo Teen Leadership Council
The Zoo Teen Leadership Council is a group of highly-motivated returning Zoo Teen members who have a strong interest in education, conservation, and being a leader in their community. This is an opportunity for returning Zoo Teens to build leadership, teamwork, and career skills. This program will run May – August.
Requirements
- Open to 3rd – 5th year zoo teens under the age of 18
- Submit an application and, if selected, participate in an interview on an individual basis
- Must attend one orientation session for new Zoo Teens to meet and welcome them
- Must attend pre-summer training and planning meetings in May
- Must be willing to attend meetings twice per month
- Must be willing to mentor other zoo teens
Opportunities
- Gain leadership and teamwork skills
- Assist with event coordinating and planning
- Participate in off-site field trips
- Learn from guest speakers
- Receive additional training opportunities such as mentoring
To Apply
Applications will open February 14, 2025 and will close Sunday March 16, 2025. Interviews will occur in late March. Applicants will be chosen based on their application, interview, and previous evaluations.
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Parental/Guardian Agreement
Being part of the Zoo Teen Leadership Team is a significant commitment. We want to ensure that all Zoo Teen Leader members and their parents/guardians understand and agree to commit to all required meetings/participation dates as outlined above.
