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).
Volunteer Orientation
If you are interested in volunteering at Dodge, please come to an orientation to learn more about Dodge and what volunteer opportunities might interest you. If you decide volunteering at Dodge is for you, set up a time on Thursdays for a short informal interview with the Volunteer Coordinator.
Orientations are held every Tuesday afternoon at 1:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Interviews are set up on an individual basis every Thursday between 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
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!
