Get Involved: Natural Areas - Volunteer Naturalist Assistant

Volunteer Naturalist Assistant

Description:

Volunteer Naturalist Assistants (VNA) serve as important aids to Naturalists. VNAs assist with group management, props, and activities.  

Naturalists provide educational programs on the natural areas to members of the community. Often groups are large, the outings take place in remote areas, or the activities are complex, and Naturalists need a helping hand. This is where the VNA comes in. VNAs also help staff booths at community events. Volunteering as a Naturalist Assistant is a good way to take an active role in the education programs without the time commitment or specialized training required of Naturalists. It’s also a great way to gain experience in interpretation, natural history, and group management. 

Qualifications:  

• Must be eighteen years or older. 
• Must pass a background check. 
• Have a background or interest in natural history and a feel a connection with nature. 
• Be enthusiastic about helping with education and outreach activities. 
• Possess or be able to learn basic communication skills. 
• Have a willingness to learn and a desire to help Naturalists present high-quality programming.

Requirements:  

• Must have internet access and use email. 
• Must successfully complete the Naturalist Assistant Training Program including attendance at all class sessions. 
• Assist with a minimum of two programs each calendar year. 
• Donate at least 25 hours within two years of training. 
• Attend at least two qualified continuing education programs, field trips or workshops per year (these are sponsored/provided by the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department).
• Must regularly work with Natural Areas Department Volunteer Coordinator and report volunteer hours. 

 

Responsibilities & Activities:

• Coordinate with Naturalists and Natural Areas Department staff to prepare for and assist with programs. 
• Assist with collecting, managing, and returning program supplies. 
• Assist Naturalists with program implementation. 
• Count and report program attendance. 
• Assist with group management, as needed. 
• Staff booths at community events, as needed.
• Answer questions and serve as a Natural Areas Department ambassador to the public.

Time Commitment:

Participants must attend the mandatory 8-hour training, assist with a minimum of two programs in each calendar year and donate a total of at least 25 hours within two years of training. Opportunities to volunteer are many and varied and fit most schedules. In addition, to remain an active volunteer, NAs must attend at least two qualified continuing education programs, field trips, or workshops per year. These are sponsored/provided by the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department and are provided free of charge. 

Volunteer Benefits:

• Gain experience in the field of environmental education.
• Receive mentoring by experienced interpreters.
• Work outdoors and share your passion with the public.
• Volunteer on a flexible schedule.
• Attend free continuing education opportunities.
• Interact with people with similar interests.
• Assist visitors in understanding and appreciating natural areas.
• Participate in fun volunteer recognition and social events.
• Be an integral part of a large, well-respected, and forward-thinking land conservation and stewardship program.
• Be truly valued by Natural Areas Department staff and managers.

Location:

Various Natural Areas

 

Training takes place at 1745 Hoffman Mill Rd., Fort Collins, CO.

Interests:

Field Work - Outdoor Skills, Field Work - Environment, Community Volunteer - Special Events