Volunteer Opportunities
Our generous volunteers have helped Dodge Nature Center educate thousands of children each year and operate at the highest possible level. Volunteers have the opportunity to teach classes, lead hikes through the Nature Center, restore prairies, groom and exercise farm animals, plant trees, maintain trails, take photographs, assist in the office and much more. We're always looking for more volunteers, so come join us today!
Download an application here (PDF).
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Halloween Extravaganza: Friday, October 28
Admissions, Concessions, Scary Trail, Trick or Treat Trail, Scary Hair and Face Painting, Costume Contest Judging
Frosty Fun Festival: Saturday, January 21
Admissions, Concessions, Crafts, Outdoor Games and Activities
Volunteer Orientation
If you are interested in volunteering at Dodge, you can download a volunteer application or call to request a form be sent to you. When you have completed the form, send it to Susan Richter, our Volunteer Coordinator. She will contact you to set up an informal interview and orientation.
Contact Sue Richter at 651.455.4531 or email her for more information.
Indoor Opportunities
There are may occasions throughout the year when we need help in the main office. You can work as little or as much as you like, setting your own days and times. We'd love to have you on our list to call for special projects or general office help!
Outdoor Opportunities
Teachers and Naturalists (Weekdays)
Receive training and assist with the presentation of our educational, agricultural and nature-based programs.
Weekend Tour Leaders (Saturdays)
Receive training to help present Family Farm, Orchard, Snowshoeing, Maple Syruping and Monarch Tagging programs to weekend visitors at Dodge.
Woolly Bear Assistants (Weekdays and Saturdays)
Help with preschool parent/child programs.
Land Restoration and Management
Help staff members with invasive plant removal and restorative practices.
Buildings and Grounds Maintenance
Assist with trail maintenance, grounds work, carpentry, etc.
Benefit Planners
Help the Development Department and Benefit Sub-Committee prepare for our annual fall fundraiser.
Trail Patrols
Hike trails, report conditions, sightings, etc.
Special Activities
Assist in the many aspects of our festivals, including Spring Farm Festival, Halloween Extravaganza, Winter Frosty Fun Festival and Pancake Breakfast.
Day Camp
Assist with the presentation of summer, fall and spring 1st-7th grade camp programs.
Animal Care
Help feed and care for raptors, farm animals and herptiles. This also includes bluebird house trail maintenance.
Gardens and Greenhouse
Propagate and maintain garden and greenhouse plants.
Miscellaneous Opportunities
Skilled photographers, seamstresses, artists, musicians, taxidermists, etc. are always needed!
Corporate Group Opportunities
If your corporate group is interested in volunteering at Dodge, please contact Jason Sanders at 651.455.4531.
