Teen Volunteers
Teens: Would you like to volunteer somewhere that you can make a positive impact on animal welfare, the environment, and children? Then look no further than the Sacramento Zoo! We offer two volunteer programs for teens: zoo teens during the school year and camp counselors during the summer.
Applications for the 2019/2020 Zoo Teen program year are closed. If you are interested in applying for the 2020/2021 program year, check back here in May 2020.
What is a zoo teen?
Zoo Teens are a group of middle school and high school students from all around the Sacramento region, aged 13 – 18. These individuals are interested in animals, the Earth and our community and they volunteer their time on weekends at the Sacramento Zoo. Zoo teens will develop their own ideals, views and passions to help encourage zoo patrons to become better stewards of this planet.
What are the requirements to be a zoo teen?
- Teens must turn 13 before entering the program
- Teens must be in middle school or high school. Anyone who has graduated from high school is encouraged to apply to the Zoo Ambassador program.
- After completing the application process, if they are selected to be a zoo teen, requirements are:
- Volunteer 8 weekend hours per month at the zoo
- Maintain a 2.75 grade point average
- Attend all required orientations and training
What does a zoo teen do?
Zoo teens primarily spend their time inspiring zoo visitors to become better stewards of the Earth through activity stations. Zoo teens also help at special events, give keeper chats, plan and participate in I Heart Sacramento Zoo, and make animal enrichments.
What are the benefits of being a zoo teen?
Sacramento zoo teens will learn public speaking skills, gain confidence and initiative and be encouraged to excel in school and the workplace. As zoo teens progress through their years in the program, there are opportunities for further career exploration through higher level zoo teen positions.
How does someone become a zoo teen?
Complete the application, submit proof of their 2.75 GPA, interview with a staff member from the Education Department and provide a letter of recommendation before being considered for the program.
If you have additional questions, email the Teen Coordinator.
Applications for the 2019 Camp Counselor program have closed.
As a counselor, you will help camp teachers prepare for and teach classes for kids ages 4 to 14. You will lead songs and games, tour the kids around the zoo, and work with teachers and kids to make sure everyone is having a great time. Counselors also help out with our Family Overnight Safaris and spend the night at the zoo once each summer. You will also run public education stations where you present a craft to the public and talk about our animals and their conservation. No matter what your strengths, there is a part of zoo camp that you can excel in!
What are the requirements for the camp counselor program?
Camp counselors are required to work Monday-Friday for 2 weeks, full day (8 am to 5 pm) or 4 weeks, half day (8 am to 1 pm or noon to 5 pm). They can work these weeks consecutively or break them up throughout the summer.
How does someone become a camp counselor?
They must complete the application, interview with a staff member from the Education Department and provide a letter of recommendation before being considered for the program.
Please Note
- Morning shifts are 8 am to 1 pm, and afternoon shifts are noon to 5 pm
- *Additional options include: 2 weeks of full day shifts (8 am to 5 pm) or 1 week of full day shifts and 2 weeks of half day shifts
What is a camp counselor?
If you have additional questions, email the Teen Coordinator.
Amanda Sieverts, Teen Volunteer since 2015
What is Roots & Shoots?
The Roots & Shoots Mission
To foster respect and compassion for all living things, to promote understanding of all cultures and beliefs and to inspire each individual to take action and make the world a better place for the environment, animals and the human community.
Program Description
Roots & Shoots is the Jane Goodall Institute’s global, environmental and humanitarian program for youth. In classrooms, community-based clubs and youth groups, Roots & Shoots members plan and participate in activities and service projects that promote care and concern for animals, the environment, and the human community. Through its diverse international membership, Roots & Shoots fosters respect, understanding and exchange among individuals of different cultures and countries.
