Thanks for your interest in volunteering at the NEW Zoo! Our current Special Event for which we are recruiting volunteers is EggStravaganZoo 2025. Here’s the FAQ regarding this event:
What does the Zoo need volunteers for?
Lots of things, including help with children’s games and crafts, handing out candy and activity cards, serving as costume mascots like the Easter Bunny, and more.
Who can volunteer?
Just about anyone! Kids must be at least 8 years old to volunteer with an adult or other authorized chaperone. Kids can volunteer without a chaperone starting at the age of 15. (Adults must sign a waiver authorizing all children to volunteer.)
What sort of paperwork is required?
All event volunteers – both minors and adults! – need to have a completed Event Volunteer Waiver signed by a guardian. These forms must be brought to the Zoo and turned in upon check-in . The zoo will have blank copies available in case you forget a form, or in case you do not have access to a printer.
When does the Zoo need help?
EggStravaganZoo occurs on Saturday, April 19th from 9am to 2pm. There are a few different shifts to choose from – some in the morning and others mostly in the afternoon.
Do I need to dress up or wear a costume?
Festive, spring-themed apparel is OPTIONAL (but encouraged!) for all volunteers. We love to see bunny ears or springtime hats, for example! Please note that all volunteers should dress for the weather – much of EggStravaganZoo takes place outdoors, as long as weather is not severe – so keep that in mind as you dress. The event goes on RAIN, SNOW or SHINE! Layers are great – hand warmers or blankets are helpful when it’s chilly! Don’t forget things like hats, scarves, gloves, etc. Sunglasses or a visor are also helpful.
What do I get for volunteering?
Several things! For starters: you get to have a lot of fun! Many of our volunteers tell us their favorite part of the event is seeing all the children having fun – and we have to agree, it’s an awesome experience to see zoo visitors having a good time, and knowing that you are a part of it. Secondly, all volunteers who request it will be given a proof-of-service, to turn in for verification of your service hours, whether you need the proof for school, church, or other things like job applications. Whatever your reason, you’ll have a signed form upon request. Finally, everyone who volunteers this year will receive free drinks and snacks from our Volunteer Center, plus a FREE ticket to visit the NEW Zoo or enjoy the new Canopy Tour anytime in the next year. These “Volunteer Vouchers” will be valid for regular zoo admission or regular Canopy tour admission on any day, EXCEPT on special event days that require event tickets (like Zoo Boo and EggStravaganZoo). Each volunteer (adults and children) will receive one Volunteer Voucher per day of assisting at the event.
How do I know what to do, where to go, what to expect when I get there?
When you register for a volunteer shift, you will get an automatic email that will have a link to a website that contains detailed instructions about where to go and what to expect when volunteering. About two days before your volunteer shift(s), you will receive another email reminder with a link to the same page, which will be updated with a PDF version of the Volunteer Schedule. Please note that volunteer assignments may be changed by the Volunteer Coordinator in the case of not enough volunteer coverage, or due to no-shows on the day of the event. The Volunteer Coordinator strives to keep volunteers at your original registered positions, but we appreciate your understanding and willingness to be flexible, in order to help us hold a successful event.
How do I sign up?
Click this link and be sure to follow all instructions and complete the form to sign-up online:
Other questions?
Email the Volunteer Coordinator OR send a private message to our Facebook page (facebook.com/newzoogb)!