About the Volunteer Program
The purpose of volunteers is to support the Science Center staff in offering science education opportunities to people of all ages. There are volunteer opportunities in all areas, within personal time schedules, and with no age limitations. Through an application and interview process volunteers are placed in work areas based on their individual interests, skills, and talents.
The Science Center also offers internships and independent study experiences for college credit. The Center demonstrates its appreciation for volunteers through picnics, potlucks, and an annual recognition dinners.
What are the volunteer opportunities?
Volunteers may work in one or more of the following program areas:
Natural History ProgramsBird Monitoring Programs(These programs include Feeder Watch and Bird Banding)
Who can volunteer?
Anyone interested in the Science Center and our programs can volunteer.
Science Center volunteers represent a cross section of the area's population. They are youth, senior citizens, working people, single parents, couples, and families.
How do I get involved?
Apply for the volunteer program by calling the Science Center office at 218-477-2904. The email address is scicentr@mnstate.edu. You may also pick up an application at the office on campus, Centennial House, 1026 7th Avenue South. After receiving your application, we will call you to arrange an interview. During the interview we will discuss your interests and hours of availability, as well as the Science Center's programs and current volunteer opportunities.
VOLUNTEER APPLICATION(pdf document)
Why volunteer?
The benefits of volunteering are endless. Some of the rewards include:
- acquiring leadership skills
- creating new friendships
- developing personal talents, skills, and hobbies
- obtaining practical work experience
- gaining self-esteem
- learning about science
- teaching others about science and the value of our environment
- using personal skills and talents to strengthen science education in this region
What training is required?
An orientation session acquaints volunteers with the Science Center's staff and facilities. Volunteers gain practical training through workshops and on-the-job experience. Volunteers also receive specific instruction for the area in which they volunteer.
Why does the Science Center need volunteers?
As you explore the roles of volunteers in each of our three program areas, you will see how important the work of volunteers is to the Regional Science Center. Each of the programs described in the three program areas could not be offered without the participation of our volunteers.