Henry and his Handler move over all manner of terrain both on and offsite. Henry wears several pieces of costuming, while the Handler wears a vest. Because Henry has no peripheral vision and cannot talk, he must have his Handler with him at all times to assist with interpretation and guidance. Henry is always within easy walking distance to behind-the-scenes access in the event he needs a break. Offsite opportunities also come with a guaranteed changing/storage area, and an onsite contact for the event. It gets very hot inside the Henry costume regardless of outside temperature. The Henry part of this role may not be suited for those with sensitivity to heat. Volunteers in this role should feel comfortable with close proximity to guests - and should expect that unexpected hugs can come with the territory.

**Please note: although Henry is often seen standing, we are more than happy to have a lounging lion in a chair/wheelchair when needed.

• A team of 2
• At least 14 years of age
• Able to lift at least 20lbs
• Able to sit/stand 1-1.5hrs at a time
• Able to focus on one thing at a time
• Very comfortable working around many people
• Able to communicate positively and clearly
• Enjoys acting, miming, improv, and working with kids and the challenges they bring

Volunteers commit to a weekly shift the same day of each week. Shifts are 9AM-11AM, Friday, Saturday or Monday.
*Other days of the week may be available upon request and depending on need.

8hrs/mo: Henry/Handler teams commit to a weekly 2hr shift between June and Labor Day. Shifts are 9-11AM on Fridays, Saturdays or Mondays, with time spent in costume 9:30-10:30AM.

2 special events: Henry/Handler teams also commit to two special events, either on or offsite, between Memorial Day and December. Henry and his Handler see some of the busiest times at Henry Vilas Zoo.

They are here to great the guests as they enter the Zoo in the mornings. They are also a major part of our large events, as well as several events throughout Dane County.

• Online
  • Lion Training Basics (20min)
  • Volunteer Software Basics (5-10min)
  • Volunteer Orientation (1-2hrs)
• In-Person
  • Onsite orientation as part of your first day - Meet other volunteers, and HVZ Staff, learn how to safely put on and take off the Henry costume, practice inside the costume

This is one of our roles that gives volunteers the opportunity to bring Henry out into the community for special events. Special event Henry requests come from businesses, community organizations, schools, etc. for public events. We do NOT fill requests for private events off grounds (i.e. house parties, birthday celebrations, weddings, etc.).

Henry volunteers are not required to participate in off-site events. However, those who are interested can expect the following:

• The Volunteer Coordinator will be in charge of connecting the event coordinator with the Henry/Handling team. This will include making sure the H/H team has: contact information, parking, a private staging/storage area, and a very clear set of expectations for both volunteers and the event coordinator.
• Volunteers will be responsible for providing their own transportation to and from the event.
• Volunteers will be in charge of transporting the Henry/Handler costumes to and from the event.

Examples of past events with Henry have included: Brat Fest, a Capitols hockey game, ribbon cutting with the Madison mayor, the holiday tree lighting at the Capitol and many others!

Heat is always a concern with mascot costumes. To prevent overheating:

• HVZ provides all Henry volunteers with cooling vests and neck fans while in costume
• All Henry/Handler locations have shaded areas
• All Henry/Handler locations have a private break area away from guests in the event Henry needs a cooldown
• Henry does not come out in weather that is warmer than 90 degrees Fahrenheit

Henry also does not go out in precipitation of any kind or onto muddy/puddle-covered terrain. In the event of inclement weather, we will call volunteers to cancel.