Thursday, February 23, 2017

Fleet Volunteer Program

The volunteer program at the Fleet is a unique program that focuses on personal development, teamwork and fun!  Best of all, volunteers are able to self- schedule their shifts.  We are open every day of the year, so there is plenty of variety and flexibility to accommodate a demanding school schedule. 

Students (and adults) can visit www.rhfleet.org/volunteer to learn more about the volunteer program, and apply directly online!  The first step for high school students is to submit a parental consent form and two letters of recommendation.  If you get asked for a letter of recommendation, please just feel free to email me directly!  I know you are busy and definitely trust your judgement without a lengthy letter.  Once the students have submitted their application and paperwork, they are invited to attend an Open House.  At this Open House they learn more about the great impact that volunteers make at the Fleet.  This is an important step as it provides some clarity and can help a student decide if the Fleet is a good match for them.  The most important element of this program is that the volunteers want to be here!

Ongoing opportunities:
All museum floor volunteers begin as Museum Ambassadors.  Museum Ambassadors are the face of the Fleet!  They provide a warm welcoming to our visitors, engage with pocket science and provide assistance in the theater as well.  When volunteers are ready for an extra challenge, they can cross train to Gallery Facilitator, Tinkering Studio, Education Programs or Event Ambassador!  Each position has a unique element that make the Fleet a special place!  These opportunities are year round and offer the most flexible scheduling. 

Short Term Opportunities:
Camp Counselor positions are now open for spring camp and summer camp!  This is an ideal position for someone who can only volunteer during break.  *FYI- Last summer our camp counselor shifts filled up! 
Spring Camp is the week of March 27th-March 31st.
Summer Camp starts June 19th and ends on August 18th
Shifts for camp are Monday- Friday either 8am-1pm or 12pm-5pm.

Group Volunteer Opportunities:
If there are any service clubs on campus, we would love to hear from them!  They can email me directly (tschroeder@rhfleet.org).  Service clubs are able to volunteer a week of camps, for a Kid City cleaning or a day of facilitating demos to our visitors!  We also have special themed science days and festivals and groups are always welcome to come in and help on these busy days.