Shell Museum Hosts Open House To Recruit Volunteers
Written by: Kathleen E. Hoover Publication Date: February 20, 2010
Shells Shine and So Do the Museum’s Volunteers: Shell Museum Hosting Open House In Search Of Volunteers A docent is an indispensible member of a museum Shells Shine and So Do the Museum’s Volunteers: Shell Museum Hosting Open House In Search Of Volunteers A docent is an indispensible member of a museum team. Their role is designed to educate, intrigue and assist visitors and to participate in various public outreach programs designed to generate interest in the mission of the Museum and encourage future generations of researchers, educators, and collectors. In The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, Great Hall of Shells docents provide guidance to visitors, answer questions and give guests a general overview of exhibit features. Docents receive extensive training about the collection, exhibits, the types of questions people ask, and how to deal with a variety of social situations. After completing training, the docents are given a special Museum nametag that identifies them as a valuable Museum resource. In exchange for their time, docents receive ongoing education, invitations to special events, a copy of the Museum Newsletter, bridge toll reimbursement, and a Museum Store discount. Generally docents volunteer several hours a week but their schedule is totally determined by their interest and availability. Potential docents submit an application and are interviewed by a member of the professional staff about their interests and availability. Docents must be 18 years of age. Unique skills such as the ability to speak a foreign language are valued but are not a requirement. Enthusiasm, a desire to learn, an appreciation for the natural world, and commitment are valued docent characteristics. If you have an interest in becoming a Great Hall of Shells docent, the Museum would like to invite you to attend an open house on Friday, March 19, 2010 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Attendees will receive a tour of the Museum. The mission and history of the Museum will be discussed and an informative mollusk video will be shared with participants. Light refreshments will follow the program. If you have an interest in becoming a docent but are unable to attend the event, please feel free to contact Diane Orvis Thomas, the Museum’s Public Programs Specialist.
