Maritime Aquarium Opens Signup for Crucial Volunteer Corps

From The Maritime Aquarium:

Pursue your interest in marine animals – and share your knowledge and enthusiasm with others – by becoming a member of the volunteer staff at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk.

Interviews for potential volunteers will be held on Tues., Sept. 20 and Wed., Sept. 21, on both days at 5 p.m. You need attend only one.

“Helping visitors, especially children, learn about Long Island Sound is personally rewarding and crucial in building public awareness about issues affecting our local environment,” said Lisa Slinsky, assistant director of Volunteers and Community Service. “The volunteer program is vital to the mission of The Maritime Aquarium and its educational goals. Plus, it's a fun way to join up with a group of people who have similar interests.”

Prior knowledge about marine animals isn't necessary to be a Maritime Aquarium volunteer. That's what will be taught in a four-week training course, which will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Tuesday, Oct. 4 to Thursday, Oct. 27.

You must be at least 15 years old to sign up.

Adults are especially needed for weekday time slots.

Most volunteers serve as gallery ambassadors, helping visitors learn more about the represented animals of Long Island Sound, from crabs and sea stars to seals and sharks. There are also needs for behind-the-scenes office and special-event volunteers.

The minimum time commitment required from volunteers is 100 hours, at four hours per week for weekday volunteers and four hours per month for weekend staff. Letters of recommendation and other service-award forms will be signed by our staff at the completion of 100 hours of service.

A $40 fee covers the costs of training materials and uniforms. Volunteers receive discounts in the gift shop, Cascade Café and on many programs.

Advance registration is required for the interview sessions and volunteer training course.

Further information is available through the Maritime Aquarium website.

Photo courtesy of The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk