Gardeners volunteer outside in mostly open sun (though, shade can present itself in the early mornings when the shadows are longer). Terrain can vary from flat and smooth to rough and hilly - depending on where you're working for the day.

Fun in the Sun activities are guest-facing. Volunteers should expect to be interacting with any number of guests (usually depending on weather) from a few to a few dozen at a time. FITS takes place in a mix of shade and sun. We will move under the central tent when needed.

We give breaks when needed. Volunteers have access to public restrooms, as well as to our Volunteer Central - where volunteers can rest and cool down with access to a restroom and kitchen space.

• At least 18 years of age to volunteer independently. Ages 14+ must be accompanied at a ratio of 1 adult to every 7 youth
• Able to be outside for at least 1hr at a time

Gardening: A HVZ staff member will meet your group at the main entrance to the zoo (the one facing Drake & Randall) at the start of your shift. Expect to walk down to Volunteer Central where we’ll check everyone in for the day, talk to you a bit about HVZ and your gardening project. From there, our horticulturalist will take you to get tools and show you the area you’ll be working in. You’ll have support from our horticulturalist and other volunteer coordination staff throughout your volunteer shift.

Fun in the Sun: A HVZ staff member will meet your group at the main entrance to the zoo (the one facing Drake & Randall) at the start of your shift. Expect to walk down to Volunteer Central where we’ll check everyone in for the day, talk to you a bit about HVZ and your gardening project. From there, a member of our guest services team will help you gather the yard games to set up outside. You'll have support from several staff members throughout your volunteer shift. Expect lots of kids and lots of smiles!

Group Gardening shifts are all 9AM-11:30AM on Wednesdays.

Fun in the Sun shifts are all 9AM-11:30AM on Thursdays.

Should you wish a slightly different time and/or a different day, please let us know. We can sometimes be flexible and shift things as needed.

• Gardening tools/activity supplies
• Any training and support from staff
• Secure storage space for any belongings
• Refrigerators and a microwave for any food/beverages
• A volunteer lounge for cooling down and relaxing when needed

• If gardening, clothes ready for dirt and/or any comfort items (i.e. knee pads, folding chairs, etc.)
• Sun screen, bug spray, fans
• (optional) Food, snacks, beverages and any eating utensils

Gardening: While we do garden rain or shine, we do try to make sure our volunteers aren’t out in inclement weather. In the event that a portion of your volunteer time looks to be getting past the point of a drizzle, we’ll try to wait out the rain for a bit. In the event that there’s a steady rain that develops before/during your shift that doesn’t look like it will let up, then we will cancel for the day and make every effort to reschedule.

Fun in the Sun: We will run games rain or shine. In the event of precipitation we will move our games under the white tent in the middle of the zoo. In the event of truly inclement weather, we will contact you to cancel and make every effort to reschedule.