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Henry The Lion & Handler

Overview

 

We are looking for Henry the Lions and Handlers for the year! Are you free one day a month between June and August? And one special event of your choice during the year? Then read below to find out more!

Henry the Lion and his handlers are a staple of any visit to the Henry Vilas Zoo. If you’re an enthusiastic person who enjoys making kids smile and being goofy, then Henry is for you.

Henry and his handler walk Zoo grounds on clear days giving high-fives to kids, waving at our guests, and participating in many a photo-op. Henry volunteers may be called up to attend a variety of special events – both on and off grounds. These events include, but are not limited to: HVZ’s Run Wild, Boo at the Zoo & Zoo Lights, holiday celebrations, parades, and even sporting events. Henry does NOT do private parties outside those run on site through HVZ.

Shift Times

Shifts vary depending on event need

Age Requirement

Minimum age 14
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Responsibilities

Henry

  • Greet guests of all ages with high-fives, handshakes, and, when asked for, hugs
  • Pose for photos
  • Listen and communicate with the handler to maintain an awareness of your surroundings

Henry’s Handler

  • Happily engage with Zoo guests by guiding Henry around the Zoo
  • Provide verbal communication to Henry telling him where people are coming from since he can’t see well.
  • Encourage the guests to approach Henry, give high-fives, dance with Henry or take pictures as Henry is unable to talk.
  • Repeat conversation and questions to Henry as it’s hard to hear while in the costume

Qualifications

  • At least 5′ 2″
  • Friendly and engaging personality
  • Able to stay calm in an emergency situation
  • A good, working knowledge of Zoo grounds
  • The ability to enthusiastically mime feelings
  • Excellent listening & communication
  • Able to walk and stand while wearing a mascot costume for 30-60min at a time. Henry Handlers must also be able to walk and stand for 30-60min at a time.
  • **While not required, we do prefer you have a partner to do this role with you. We can sometimes provide handlers or Henry’s, but it’s much easier if you already have a partner.

Training

General orientation, specific training and mentored shift.

Benefits

Volunteer outside at the Zoo, meet new friends, help create lasting memories for Zoo guests, volunteer t-shirt, volunteer nametag, recognition event(s).

Reports To

Henry Vilas Zool Volunteer Department