Interested in becoming a weekend host? Fill out our "New Weekend Host" form and our volunteer coordinator will be in contact with you shortly to set up a training.
What is Weekend Hosting? Weekend Hosts are our most trusted volunteers who are trained to staff the nature center on the weekends while staff is gone. Volunteering as a weekend host is a great opportunity to make a difference while relaxing by the bird viewing window or working on a hobby such as scrap booking, crocheting, or reading. Weekend hosts can volunteer for as many or a few shifts as they would like.
When do Weekend Hosts volunteer? Time slots for weekend hosting are: Saturdays: 10-1 or 1-4 pm Sundays: 1-4 pm (only Memorial Day through Thanksgiving)
What do Weekend Hosts do? Open and close the nature center Take care of tasks such as: -Greet patrons in a friendly manner -Answer phones and leave notes for staff if needed -Fill bird feeders in our bird garden -Keep Dexter (the nature center's cat) company- don't worry, if you're allergic you can keep him in the back
Who is this opportunity good for? This opportunity is great for everyone! Volunteer as a family and let the kids play in the Discovery Den. Students can study for classes while getting volunteer hours (must be 18 or older to volunteer by yourself)!
What is the difference between Weekend Hosting and Desk Helpers? Weekend hosts are those who watch the Nature Center while staff is away. Desk helpers, however, do not need special training and run the desk while a staff member is onsite but unavailable, such as when they are running a program.
What are the expectations? Due to the nature of this program, our hosts are held to higher expectations than most of our volunteers. To begin and continue as a host you must: - Pass a background check - Treat all patrons, staff, volunteers, and property with respect - Not abuse the privilege to have a key and security code (only using it for hosting) - Conduct yourself in a professional manner when running the front desk (no cursing, loud music/movies, etc.) - Complete the tasks expected of our hosts (such as feeding the birds and setting the security code)
Interested in Weekend Hosting? Feel free to email volunteer@dhnature.org or call 217-235-4644 to be connected with Malina, our volunteer coordinator, if you have any questions. You can also fill out the form below and she will get in contact with you shortly.