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Oregon

Oregon Coast Aquarium Seeks Volunteers

The Oregon Coast Aquarium is offering a variety of volunteer opportunities during fall volunteer training. In addition to interpretive volunteer recruitment, the Aquarium is seeking volunteers to work behind the scenes in facility maintenance, in the gift shop, as event coordinators, on the exhibits team and doing clerical work. Enrollment is open now for Fall Volunteer Training, which begins October 6 and continues each Saturday through November 17 from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm.

Interpreter training is being offered for those interested in learning more about marine life and the coastal environment. Through a series of lectures and hands-on activities, volunteers learn about the history of the Aquarium, animal care, coastal habitats and animal biology. “Each session, we are so fortunate to bring in wonderful new volunteers whose zest for learning is exhibited in their dedication and commitment to volunteering,” said Carmen Morgan, Manager of Volunteer Services. “It is rewarding to see new volunteers mix with current volunteers and develop friendships based on a common love for the ocean and its inhabitants.” Morgan said the training offers people an opportunity to share the Aquarium’s mission of educating the public about the coast, the animals and conservation of marine habitats.

Earn College Credits College credits are available through Oregon Coast Community College for volunteers who complete the interpreter program, pay an additional $40 and meet all requirements. Once training is completed, volunteers are assigned to an intern position in available areas, or they become Interpreters for a minimum of six months.

Cool Benefits Benefits include discounts in the gift shop, free membership (after serving 50 volunteer hours), Aquarium passes, invitations to special events and evening enrichment programs. Volunteers have the satisfaction of expanding their personal marine knowledge while giving something back to the community by supporting the Aquarium.

Find Out More The Aquarium asks for a one-year commitment of one half-day shift each week, or a half day every other week for people with special needs or who commute long distances. The fall training classes are held all day Saturdays from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm for 6 weeks beginning Oct 6– Nov 17, skipping Oct 27 for the Aquarium’s annual “Creatures of the Night” Halloween event.

A $40 fee is required for materials for interpreter positions. A $20 fee is required for volunteers working in other positions, which covers a uniform and materials. Participants must be 18 years or older, applications due by October 1, 2012. For adult volunteer training information call Carmen Morgan, Manager of Volunteer Services at 541-867-3474, extension 5315 or e-mail [email protected] .