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Evansville's Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden

Evansville, Indiana City Zoo

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You are here: Home / Support Us / Volunteer / Docents

Docents

What is a Docent?

Docents are adult volunteers that interact with guests to enhance their zoo experience. Docents must be at least 18 years of age, a member of the Zoo, and complete training requirements that correspond with the type of privileges desired.

What does a Docent do?

Docents have completed specialized training to provide educational interpretation of exhibits, bio facts, and animals throughout the zoo to teach about wildlife, environment, and conservation topics.  Docents also conduct programs to schools, scout groups, summer campers, senior citizens, and civic organizations in our community. Docents can take training to learn how to handle and interpret our ambassador animals to guests at the Zoo.

How do I become a Docent?

  1. Read the Docent Program Flyer (link below) to find out more about the program and training schedule. Entry classes are offered twice a year – in spring and fall.
  2. Complete the online Docent Application (link below).
  3. Submit the application by the deadline as stated on the application (roughly Feb. 1 / Sept. 1 each year).
  4. Interview with a member of the MPZ Docent Recruitment Committee.
  5. Wait to be contacted by Zoo staff once your application is approved, approximately two weeks prior to first class.
  6. Attend our Docent training class to begin in early February & September.

Questions? call 812-435-0809, or email education@meskerparkzoo.com


Applications are accepted year-round. Training classes are offered in February and September.

Volunteer Program 2023
Volunteer Application

Docent Application

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Applicant Information

Name*
Address*
Please list any volunteer experience with other organizations. Provide the most recent OR the most relevant to this volunteer position.
Are you willing and able to...*

Education & Experience

Employment Status

Skills & Interests

Please indicate in which areas you have experience:
Working with people
General

Verification

I understand that if accepted for a volunteer position, I agree to receive training to help me carry out my volunteer activities. I affirm under the penalties for perjury that I have never been arrested or convicted for any offense against children. I understand that my name will be checked out through the Indiana Child Safe program. I further affirm under the penalties for perjury that I have never been arrested or convicted for any offense against animal welfare. I certify that all information provided on this application is true and complete. I understand that falsification or significant omissions of any information may be considered justification for non-acceptance or dismissal if discovered at a later date.
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Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Gardens

HOURS & ADMISSION

Open 365 Days a Year!

9am - 4pm

Summer Rates

Adults (Ages 13+): $11.00
Children (age 3-12): $10.00
Children 2 and Under: Free

1545 Mesker Park Drive
Evansville, Indiana 47720

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