Docents

Docents are trained volunteers who provide educational services for our guests. The role of a docent is three-fold:

1. They serve as hosts, to provide a welcoming atmosphere. In many cases they are our venue’s “front-line” representatives.
2. They serve as interpreters of the museum’s exhibitions, helping to give the visitor a deeper understanding and appreciation the venue in which they serve.
3. In addition, docents assist in preserving the collections by providing auxiliary security in exhibition areas.

 A docent must be sensitive to visitors’ differences – learning style, cultural backgrounds, age level, and special needs. Today’s audience is varied and requires open-mindedness, flexibility and respect.

The following characteristics make a good docent:

1. A sincere and genuine interest in people of all ages.
2. A love for and excitement about learning and teaching.
3. Attention to detail and accuracy.
4. A sense of flexibility and cooperation.
5. An attitude of tolerance and respect for all people’s points of view.

If this style of volunteering appeals to you, then please apply!  Our Docent Program accept applications yearly.  Please note that not all areas currently have a docent program, but those that do and are currently hiring are listed below:

Butterfly Biosphere:

• Job Description
• Application

Ashton Gardens 

• Job Desription
• Application

Farm Country (Coming Soon)
Museum of Ancient Life (Coming Soon)

4-H Growing Leaders

Growing Leaders are teen volunteers at Thanksgiving Point. Enrolled in 4-H, club members have opportunities to learn, serve, and grow. Growing Leaders are encouraged and supported in their individual interests and passions. With multiple museums, classes, and events going on throughout the year, there are so many ways to get involved. Growing Leaders mentor children as summer camp counselors, help run events, take care of the gardens, and other duties based on their interests. For more information, email growingleaders@thanksgivingpoint.org

Applications will be accepted throughout the year. Applicants must attend the mandatory meeting following their application due date in order to become a Growing Leader. Please refer HERE for application and mandatory meeting dates. We're excited to have you join our team!

Internships

The mission of Thanksgiving Point is to provide transformative family learning. Educational advancement through internships is one of these opportunities. Thanksgiving Point is home to the Museum of Ancient Life, the 55-acre Ashton Gardens, an actual working Farm Country, and the family science Museum of Natural Curiosity. We also host educational classes that range from culinary arts, to horticultural design and agriculture, to science and business. 

 Apply for an internship here.

• Administrative Assistant/Fundraising Events Intern 
• Culinary Arts Intern 
• Marketing Intern 
• Interactive Exhibits Intern 
• Volunteer Department Intern 
• Garden Operations/Maintenance Intern 
• Community Experience Intern
• Grant Writing Internship