Henry/Handler Storytime

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

7.5hrs/mo: Henry/Handler teams commit to a weekly shift with a minimum of x3 shifts/mo between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Shifts are 9-11AM on Fridays or Saturdays, with time spent in costume 9:30-10:30AM.

2 special events: Henry/Handler teams also commit to a minimum of 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.

All of these trainings are available as refreshers at any point upon request. Optional trainings allow you to try out other roles as shifts become available. They do not add to your minimum requirements (i.e. training in on another role doesn’t require you to add another set of weekly shifts). Training spots are limited; however, we will schedule more throughout the summer as interest and time allows.

• Online
  • Lion Training Basics (20min)
  • Introduction to the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (20min)
  • Volunteer Software Basics (5-10min)
  • Volunteer Expectations (15-20min)
• In-Person
  • Onsite orientation (1hr) – Meet other volunteers, and HVZ Staff, learn how to safely put on and take off the Henry costume, practice inside the costume
• Optional
  • Train/Carousel – (Must be at least 18+) – Basic ride operation, safety protocols and guest training
  • Goat Yard – (Must be at least 10-13 w/ parent/guardian, or 14+) – Learn to open & close, operate and educate at the goat yard
  • Empathy/Interpretation – (Must be at least 10-13 w/ parent/guardian, or 14+) – ZOOM – Learn basic docent skills & practice empathy language. This training in particular will NOT allow you to pick up Wildlife Champion shifts. However, it will provide you with valuable interpretation and empathy-building skills that are useful in a variety of roles.
  • Gate Greeter – (Must be at least 10-13 w/ parent/guardian, or 14+) – Take a small tour of the Zoo going over important buildings, entries and guest protocol.

Henry does not come out in weather that is warmer than 90 degrees Fahrenheit. He 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. Volunteers will have an excused absence for the day.