Gate Greeting volunteers work primarily at the front and/or bridge entrances of the Zoo. Covered information booths are just inside the gates. Greeters have the option of working inside or outside the booths depending on their preference/needs (booths are not wheelchair accessible). The front gate is surrounded by the parking lot, gift shop, bathrooms and Guest Services center. The bridge gate is next to a manned gift shop kiosk, and a short distance from the back parking lot, main bathrooms, and Glacier Grille. This role regularly interacts with guests, and requires volunteers be comfortable engaging in social situations. However, this role is also very flexible, and would be an excellent place to start for those working with a job coach on basic guest services and social skills.

• At least 14 years of age to volunteer independently; 10-13 with a parent/guardian
• Enjoys meeting new people and starting conversations
• Enjoys helping people feel welcome and sharing our Zoo with them
• Able to sit and/or stand for 2-2.5hrs at a time

Gate Greeters are the most busy May through Labor Day. Shifts are available in April and September for those volunteers who want to balance their fast-paced days with some more relaxed times when we tend to get more local visitors.

• Online
  • Volunteer Orientation (1-2hrs)
  • Radio Training (40-50min)
  • Volunteer Software Basics (10-15min)
• In-Person
  • Onsite orientation (1hr) – Meet other volunteers, and HVZ Staff, guided Zoo tour, radio practice

Henry Vilas Zoo is open regardless of weather. While we remain open, we trust our Gate Greeters to decide whether or not they would like to volunteer in light precipitation, cold/hot temperatures, etc. The volunteer is in charge of scheduling a make-up shift in the event they choose to stay home due to weather.

In the event of truly inclement weather, we will call volunteers to cancel. In this case, volunteers do not need to make up their cancelled shift.