We really try to be available as much as possible. BUT, sometimes it's just easier to have things in email format so we can get to them quicker.
We’re always here to support you. However, we understand that sometimes people may not feel comfortable bringing an issue up in person. This form is completely anonymous. Once completed, it will go to the volunteer@henryvilaszoo.gov email where it will be considered high priority.
If this is a pressing need OR if you are comfortable speaking with staff, please feel free to contact either Lauren Salzmann (Volunteer Coordinator) or Heather Merewood (Education Manager). They can keep your feedback confidential and/or help you fill out the anonymous reporting form.
Finally, should you wish to leave your name (in the event you’re filling out this form as a last resort for quicker action), you have the opportunity to do that below.
Training on how/when to report an animal welfare concern is available through your MyImpact account under “My Profile” > “Training”.
This form gives you the option to stay anonymous. It also gives you the option of including your personal information, but staying anonymous to anyone outside the Volunteer Coordinator.
We post shout-outs to volunteers, staff, guests, and even animals on our bi-weekly volunteer update. We may even choose to post some on HVZ’s Facebook and/or Instagram accounts.
This is an excellent way to show some love to the animals and humans who make this zoo amazing.
Have a cool animal/nature/conservation thing you’ve learned lately? You can now easily contribute to our bi-weekly volunteer update!
Not all contributions will get posted, and not all right away. This is the first time I’m trying this, so it really depends on how many people contribute, if it fits the tone of the update, etc.
Some things to know:
- I try to keep posts focused on zoos, animals, nature, conservation, etc. I rarely post things that fall outside those areas. HOWEVER, if we ever have enough volunteer announcements, then I’m not above having a community bulletin board on one of the updates at some point.
- All posts should ultimately end on a positive, preferably with a way for people to get involved, find out more, etc. Take a page from the Wildlife Champion playbook.
- Posts must be able to fit on one page in font no lower than 18. I will edit down anything longer.
For Wildlife Champions only
All WC’s are at Tier 1 when they’re first getting started. Check-ins allow you to progress to higher Tiers with animals that fall a bit lower on the empathy scale.
You can schedule a check-in whenever you’d like at whatever level you’re at. Scheduling one will mean that Lauren, Kira, Courtney, or another trained HVZ staff will come to watch you in action! We’ll bring an ominous-looking clipboard 😛 and sit off to the side for about 30-45min. evaluating your interpretation. You can ask questions at any point, get help with shadowing, whatever you like! This is your time to use as you need to learn more and progress.
After your check-in we’ll let you know how you’re doing – areas for growth, strengths, etc. If we think you’re ready (and that includes what you think!) then we’ll give you clearance to progress to the next Tier.
Been here for a while and already doing all the Tiers? You can still sign up for a check-in! It’s a great way to see where you’re at and get a second set of eyes.