Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program

# Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program Zoo ALIVE (Active Leaders in Volunteer Education) is the Saint Louis Zoo's year-round volunteer educator program for high-school-age teens. Members strengthen their connection to the natural world and build leadership skills while addressing conservation issues through education, action projects, and Zoo initiatives at one of the country's major urban zoos in Forest Park, St. Louis. ## What You'll Do - Lead educational activities for Zoo visitors and help run weekend programs for kids, classes, and overnights - Assist with the Zoo's summer camps — new volunteers complete orientation, camp training, and two weeks at summer day camp - Take part in conservation action projects, citizen-science efforts, and campaigns for endangered species - Attend a monthly meeting (typically the first Sunday, 5–7:30 p.m.) and at least two Zoo volunteer activities per month - Join nature trips and explore conservation and animal-care careers alongside Zoo professionals ## Who Should Apply Mature, responsible teens who will be at least 15 years old by May 1 of the application year, enjoy working with children, and are interested in animals and conservation. No experience is necessary, but Zoo ALIVE is a year-long commitment with limited positions: applications open January 1 and materials are due by February 15, followed by a required group interview session, with notifications in mid-April. ## Outcomes Volunteers build a sustained record of conservation-education service at a major accredited zoo, develop public-speaking and leadership skills teaching real audiences, and gain insider exposure to zoo, wildlife, and conservation career paths.