Opportunities From: Delaware State Parks

Volunteer: Zoo Year's Eve Event Volunteers 2025

Help us ring in the new year early at Zoo Year's Eve! This family friendly event will feature a cider toast and a ball drop at 12:00pm. Volunteers are needed to assist with supervising our crafting tables and pouring cider for zoo guests.

Volunteers should plan to be on-site at the zoo between 9:30 am and 2:30pm. This opportunity is outside, so please dress for a variety of temperatures.

After you respond to this opportunity, the Manager of Volunteers will reach out with more information.

Note: A background check is required for all event volunteers 18+. This is provided by Delaware State Parks at no cost to the volunteers 

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Help us ring in the new year early at Zoo Year's Eve! This family friendly event will feature a cider toast and a ball drop at 12:00pm. Volunteers are needed to assist with supervising our crafting tables and pouring cider for zoo guests.

Volunteers should plan to be on-site at the zoo between 9:30 am and 2:30pm. This opportunity is outside, so please dress for a variety of temperatures.

After you respond to this opportunity, the Manager of Volunteers will reach out with more information.

Note: A background check is required for all event volunteers 18+. This is provided by Delaware State Parks at no cost to the volunteers 

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Happens On Dec 31, 2025

Zip Code: 19802

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Serving up trivia at the Brandywine Zoo (Drink server)

This fall and winter, the Brandywine Zoo is hosting 6 fang-tastic trivia nights! Ranging from the creepy and crawly to the birds and bees, these trivia nights are sure to be a "hoot".

We're looking for a volunteer who can serve alcoholic drinks at each trivia night. While you won't be answering the trivia, you'll still get to test your knowledge of the animal kingdom while pouring drinks, serving snacks, and ensuring guests enjoy their time with us.

Trivia Nights and Themes:

Creepy and Crawly TriviaNovember 14th: 5:00pm-8:00pmNovember 15th: 5:00pm-8:00pmRest and Revelry TriviaJanuary 9th: 5:00pm-8:00pmJanuary 10th: 500pm-8:00pmBirds and Bees TriviaFebruary 20th: 5:00pm-8:00pmFebruary 21st: 5:00pm-8:00pmPlease note: Birds and Bees Trivia is all about animal mating and reproduction habits, so volunteers must be comfortable with these topics.

Volunteers must be 21+, complete a background check, and have proof of a valid, completed Responsible Server Training certification within the last 4 years. Training can be obtained online at either of the approved trainings linked here: https://date.delaware.gov/ATE/server-training.shtml. Financial support for the training may be available - please directly reach out to the Manager of Volunteers.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

This fall and winter, the Brandywine Zoo is hosting 6 fang-tastic trivia nights! Ranging from the creepy and crawly to the birds and bees, these trivia nights are sure to be a "hoot".

We're looking for a volunteer who can serve alcoholic drinks at each trivia night. While you won't be answering the trivia, you'll still get to test your knowledge of the animal kingdom while pouring drinks, serving snacks, and ensuring guests enjoy their time with us.

Trivia Nights and Themes:

Creepy and Crawly TriviaNovember 14th: 5:00pm-8:00pmNovember 15th: 5:00pm-8:00pmRest and Revelry TriviaJanuary 9th: 5:00pm-8:00pmJanuary 10th: 500pm-8:00pmBirds and Bees TriviaFebruary 20th: 5:00pm-8:00pmFebruary 21st: 5:00pm-8:00pmPlease note: Birds and Bees Trivia is all about animal mating and reproduction habits, so volunteers must be comfortable with these topics.

Volunteers must be 21+, complete a background check, and have proof of a valid, completed Responsible Server Training certification within the last 4 years. Training can be obtained online at either of the approved trainings linked here: https://date.delaware.gov/ATE/server-training.shtml. Financial support for the training may be available - please directly reach out to the Manager of Volunteers.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 19802

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Join our docent team!

The Brandywine Zoo Conservation Science and Learning Department is seeking friendly, dependable, and enthusiastic volunteers for our Docent Program. As a Docent, you’ll guide guests through the wonderful world of wildlife, answer questions about animals and their behavior, and be a part of creating or sustaining the lifelong love of animals in our guests. You’ll be a member of a critical team that assists the Brandywine Zoo staff in making sure our guests leave with a sense of awe and are inspired to conserve wildlife!

Interested? Please complete the following two steps: 

Respond to this opportunity by selecting respond in the upper left corner and completing the registration process on Galaxy Digital.Candidate must also complete the following supplemental form here: https://form.jotform.com/253214771477158Note: Your application will not be considered complete if you do not complete the supplemental form.

Location: Brandywine Zoo – Wilmington, DE

Supervisor: Manager of Volunteers - Luvina Cooley

Schedule: Minimum commitment of 24 shifts per year. You will choose two recurring shifts each month that you would like to come out for interpretation. Shifts are scheduled in the AM (10am-1pm) or PM (1pm-4pm) and will occur on a consistent day of the 1st and 3rd weeks or the 2nd and 4th weeks of each month. For example, a docent may be scheduled to work the AM shift on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month.  Docents are also required to attend monthly meetings on the first Saturday of each month. Additional coordination will be done by the Manager of Volunteers and Curator of Conservation Science and Learning at the Brandywine Zoo.

Training Dates: Attendance at all training days is mandatory, as each day covers different information.

March 7th: 8:30am-3:30pm (Lunch will be provided)March 14th: 9:00am-12:30pmMarch 21st: 9:00am-12:30pmMarch 28th: 9:00am-12:30pm

Apply by: Applications close at 11:59 pm, January 31st, 2025 

Qualifications:

Applicants must be 18+ years old Willing and able to complete a background check performed by the Division of Parks and Recreation Fluent in the English language (verbally and via written communication) Must be able to volunteer at the zoo 2 set days per month, totaling to 24 shifts per year Must be able to come to the monthly meetings (held on the first Saturday of every month) Must have an interest in working with the general public Candidates must exhibit consistent professional characteristics such as a punctuality, positive attitude, initiative, emotional maturity and self-responsibility Able to commit to upholding all zoo safety and personnel policies, and support the overall mission of the Brandywine Zoo

Responsibilities: 

Interpretating conservation messages by conducting activities in the zoo for guests Interpretating and educating guests on the animals at the zoo Present biofacts, like pelts, bones, etc. to the public Assist educators with zoo programs as schedule allows Interpret at the zoo’s special events as schedule allows Other duties as assigned

Unfortunately, it is against our policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals at this time. This is both for the safety of our volunteers and our animals.

All Brandywine Zoo docent volunteers are required to undergo and successfully complete a background check performed by the Division of Parks and Recreation.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

The Brandywine Zoo Conservation Science and Learning Department is seeking friendly, dependable, and enthusiastic volunteers for our Docent Program. As a Docent, you’ll guide guests through the wonderful world of wildlife, answer questions about animals and their behavior, and be a part of creating or sustaining the lifelong love of animals in our guests. You’ll be a member of a critical team that assists the Brandywine Zoo staff in making sure our guests leave with a sense of awe and are inspired to conserve wildlife!

Interested? Please complete the following two steps: 

Respond to this opportunity by selecting respond in the upper left corner and completing the registration process on Galaxy Digital.Candidate must also complete the following supplemental form here: https://form.jotform.com/253214771477158Note: Your application will not be considered complete if you do not complete the supplemental form.

Location: Brandywine Zoo – Wilmington, DE

Supervisor: Manager of Volunteers - Luvina Cooley

Schedule: Minimum commitment of 24 shifts per year. You will choose two recurring shifts each month that you would like to come out for interpretation. Shifts are scheduled in the AM (10am-1pm) or PM (1pm-4pm) and will occur on a consistent day of the 1st and 3rd weeks or the 2nd and 4th weeks of each month. For example, a docent may be scheduled to work the AM shift on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month.  Docents are also required to attend monthly meetings on the first Saturday of each month. Additional coordination will be done by the Manager of Volunteers and Curator of Conservation Science and Learning at the Brandywine Zoo.

Training Dates: Attendance at all training days is mandatory, as each day covers different information.

March 7th: 8:30am-3:30pm (Lunch will be provided)March 14th: 9:00am-12:30pmMarch 21st: 9:00am-12:30pmMarch 28th: 9:00am-12:30pm

Apply by: Applications close at 11:59 pm, January 31st, 2025 

Qualifications:

Applicants must be 18+ years old Willing and able to complete a background check performed by the Division of Parks and Recreation Fluent in the English language (verbally and via written communication) Must be able to volunteer at the zoo 2 set days per month, totaling to 24 shifts per year Must be able to come to the monthly meetings (held on the first Saturday of every month) Must have an interest in working with the general public Candidates must exhibit consistent professional characteristics such as a punctuality, positive attitude, initiative, emotional maturity and self-responsibility Able to commit to upholding all zoo safety and personnel policies, and support the overall mission of the Brandywine Zoo

Responsibilities: 

Interpretating conservation messages by conducting activities in the zoo for guests Interpretating and educating guests on the animals at the zoo Present biofacts, like pelts, bones, etc. to the public Assist educators with zoo programs as schedule allows Interpret at the zoo’s special events as schedule allows Other duties as assigned

Unfortunately, it is against our policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals at this time. This is both for the safety of our volunteers and our animals.

All Brandywine Zoo docent volunteers are required to undergo and successfully complete a background check performed by the Division of Parks and Recreation.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Runs Until Feb 1, 2026

Zip Code: 19802

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: UD Master Naturalist - LOP Site

For registered UD Master Naturalist participants only.

For info on this program:https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/environmental-stewardship/master-naturalist/

 NEXT STEP:

1. Review information below.

2. To be considered please click on RESPOND bottom at top right and follow instructions.

   

 

 Volunteer Service Activities for Delaware State Parks for your Master Naturalist Service: 

Available for year one candidates or continuing service.

Activities are as varied as your interests that mesh with the park’s needs and may include:

Install or maintain pollinator or rain gardens Engage in invasive plant removal, native plant installation or tree plantings Develop and implement projects to benefit certain plant or animal species such as orchids, birds, reptiles, bats Plan and lead educational or experiential public programming in coordination with Nature Centers and park interpretive programs such as wildflower or bird walks Participate in organizing multi-park projects such as Coastal Cleanup or Creekfest Conduct special projects such as research initiatives, water resource protection, or other projects that fit the park’s needs and your interests.

 

About Delaware State Parks:

Our state parks provide forest, meadow, wetland and seashore habitat for wildlife plus trails, beaches, ponds and recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy nature and the outdoors.

Our state parks mission is to provide Delaware's residents and visitors with safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities and open spaces, responsible stewardship of the lands and the cultural and natural resources that we have been entrusted to protect and manage, and resource-based interpretive and educational services. Master Naturalists are currently working to install pollinator gardens, to restore natural areas and to lead themed educational hikes for the public.  

Please join us and bring your interests and expertise to our state parks.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

For registered UD Master Naturalist participants only.

For info on this program:https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/environmental-stewardship/master-naturalist/

 NEXT STEP:

1. Review information below.

2. To be considered please click on RESPOND bottom at top right and follow instructions.

   

 

 Volunteer Service Activities for Delaware State Parks for your Master Naturalist Service: 

Available for year one candidates or continuing service.

Activities are as varied as your interests that mesh with the park’s needs and may include:

Install or maintain pollinator or rain gardens Engage in invasive plant removal, native plant installation or tree plantings Develop and implement projects to benefit certain plant or animal species such as orchids, birds, reptiles, bats Plan and lead educational or experiential public programming in coordination with Nature Centers and park interpretive programs such as wildflower or bird walks Participate in organizing multi-park projects such as Coastal Cleanup or Creekfest Conduct special projects such as research initiatives, water resource protection, or other projects that fit the park’s needs and your interests.

 

About Delaware State Parks:

Our state parks provide forest, meadow, wetland and seashore habitat for wildlife plus trails, beaches, ponds and recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy nature and the outdoors.

Our state parks mission is to provide Delaware's residents and visitors with safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities and open spaces, responsible stewardship of the lands and the cultural and natural resources that we have been entrusted to protect and manage, and resource-based interpretive and educational services. Master Naturalists are currently working to install pollinator gardens, to restore natural areas and to lead themed educational hikes for the public.  

Please join us and bring your interests and expertise to our state parks.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 19711

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Jungle at the Zoo Weeding and Group Service Projects

The Brandywine Zoo is looking for volunteer groups (ages 14+) with 15 or less participants to help us wrangle our jungle of weeds or schedule a service project for their teams, classes, and more!

A group service project is a great way to provide your organization with an opportunity:

To give back to the community or to learn about the value of service.To promote team building or collaboration.To embrace a new challenge together or to step outside a comfort zone in a safe, fun social setting.To learn about Delaware State Parks operations and to see the impact of the group's service.To take a break from the office, warehouse, classroom, etc., and enjoy the great outdoors.To accumulate service hours collectively.

The types of service projects available to groups are based on seasonal needs at the Brandywine Zoo, progress of the zoo's improvement projects, and other factors. Service projects for school groups may prioritize educational value and are intended to be age-appropriate.

Coordinators for group service projects may RESPOND AS TEAM to this opportunity and ask about scheduling a date and time that is compatible with the group's schedule. Please give us a minimum of one month to plan a project, so we can ensure there is work available to be done.

Note: If you respond to this opportunity, you will be added to a list of interested volunteers and contacted when a project is available and can be scheduled.


Two time slots are available: 9:00am-11:00am and 10:00am-12:00pm.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

The Brandywine Zoo is looking for volunteer groups (ages 14+) with 15 or less participants to help us wrangle our jungle of weeds or schedule a service project for their teams, classes, and more!

A group service project is a great way to provide your organization with an opportunity:

To give back to the community or to learn about the value of service.To promote team building or collaboration.To embrace a new challenge together or to step outside a comfort zone in a safe, fun social setting.To learn about Delaware State Parks operations and to see the impact of the group's service.To take a break from the office, warehouse, classroom, etc., and enjoy the great outdoors.To accumulate service hours collectively.

The types of service projects available to groups are based on seasonal needs at the Brandywine Zoo, progress of the zoo's improvement projects, and other factors. Service projects for school groups may prioritize educational value and are intended to be age-appropriate.

Coordinators for group service projects may RESPOND AS TEAM to this opportunity and ask about scheduling a date and time that is compatible with the group's schedule. Please give us a minimum of one month to plan a project, so we can ensure there is work available to be done.

Note: If you respond to this opportunity, you will be added to a list of interested volunteers and contacted when a project is available and can be scheduled.


Two time slots are available: 9:00am-11:00am and 10:00am-12:00pm.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 19802

Allow Groups: Teams only

Volunteer: Individual Volunteer Opportunities

Do you want to get involved with the Brandywine Zoo, but you don't see an opportunity that aligns with your interests? Let's connect!

We may have individual opportunities for volunteers outside of our programs and events, which range from stand-alone conservation efforts to animal observation or gardening. Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity or email the Manager of Volunteers, Luvina, to learn more about our current needs. Luvina will reach out to learn about your interests, as well as highlight any upcoming needs we may have.

Note: At this time, it is against zoo policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals. This is for both your safety and the safety of our animals.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Do you want to get involved with the Brandywine Zoo, but you don't see an opportunity that aligns with your interests? Let's connect!

We may have individual opportunities for volunteers outside of our programs and events, which range from stand-alone conservation efforts to animal observation or gardening. Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity or email the Manager of Volunteers, Luvina, to learn more about our current needs. Luvina will reach out to learn about your interests, as well as highlight any upcoming needs we may have.

Note: At this time, it is against zoo policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals. This is for both your safety and the safety of our animals.

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 19802

Allow Groups: No

Volunteer: Brandywine Zoo Event Volunteers

The Brandywine Zoo welcomes individuals to assist us with special events throughout the year! Events may include Boo at the Zoo, Sip and Strolls, and more!

Some tasks you might be assigned to do:

Serving alcoholChecking ID'sHanding out cupsSetting up and breaking down things like tables, chairs, and tentsHanging decorations and signageHanding out candyOther tasks as assigned

Please respond to this opportunity individually or as a small group. Please be aware, most events only require 2-6 volunteers, so spots are limited. Interested volunteers will receive reoccurring emails from the Manager of Volunteers about upcoming events and opportunities. If you're interested in a specific opportunity, please indicate the event in the notes.

ABC Server Certification not required but highly recommended.

Unfortunately, it is against our policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals at this time. This is both for the safety of our volunteers and our animals. 

Program: Brandywine Zoo

The Brandywine Zoo welcomes individuals to assist us with special events throughout the year! Events may include Boo at the Zoo, Sip and Strolls, and more!

Some tasks you might be assigned to do:

Serving alcoholChecking ID'sHanding out cupsSetting up and breaking down things like tables, chairs, and tentsHanging decorations and signageHanding out candyOther tasks as assigned

Please respond to this opportunity individually or as a small group. Please be aware, most events only require 2-6 volunteers, so spots are limited. Interested volunteers will receive reoccurring emails from the Manager of Volunteers about upcoming events and opportunities. If you're interested in a specific opportunity, please indicate the event in the notes.

ABC Server Certification not required but highly recommended.

Unfortunately, it is against our policy to allow volunteers to work with our animals at this time. This is both for the safety of our volunteers and our animals. 

Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 19802

Allow Groups: Yes

Volunteer: Adopt-A-Garden at Brandywine Zoo

Brandywine Zoo is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our Adopt-A-Garden program! Our gardens on zoo grounds help us provide habitat for native pollinators, provide seeds for birds to eat, and help us educate zoo guests about the natural world all around us. However, they require consistent weeding and watering to keep them healthy, and we can use your help!

As an Adopt-A-Garden volunteer, you can expect to:

Visit the zoo weekly to weed and water your assigned garden bedsAssist staff with planting and mulching when necessaryLearn best practices for gardening, such as leaving the leaves in the fall to provide habitat for overwintering insects and nutrients for the plantsLearn about native plants and pollinators, and how they're an essential part of healthy ecosystems

Tools and experience are welcome, but not required. Volunteers will be assigned a garden bed, and will be provided with information about the plants in each area.

Volunteers will be responsible for attending to their gardens weekly, and will coordinate their schedule with the Manager of Volunteers. Each Adopt-A-Garden visit may last up to an hour.

Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity either individually or as a small team (four people or less). Questions regarding the Brandywine Zoo Adopt-A-Garden program can be directed to the Manager of Volunteers at luvina.cooley@delaware.gov.


Program: Brandywine Zoo

Brandywine Zoo is looking for dedicated volunteers to join our Adopt-A-Garden program! Our gardens on zoo grounds help us provide habitat for native pollinators, provide seeds for birds to eat, and help us educate zoo guests about the natural world all around us. However, they require consistent weeding and watering to keep them healthy, and we can use your help!

As an Adopt-A-Garden volunteer, you can expect to:

Visit the zoo weekly to weed and water your assigned garden bedsAssist staff with planting and mulching when necessaryLearn best practices for gardening, such as leaving the leaves in the fall to provide habitat for overwintering insects and nutrients for the plantsLearn about native plants and pollinators, and how they're an essential part of healthy ecosystems

Tools and experience are welcome, but not required. Volunteers will be assigned a garden bed, and will be provided with information about the plants in each area.

Volunteers will be responsible for attending to their gardens weekly, and will coordinate their schedule with the Manager of Volunteers. Each Adopt-A-Garden visit may last up to an hour.

Interested volunteers can respond to this opportunity either individually or as a small team (four people or less). Questions regarding the Brandywine Zoo Adopt-A-Garden program can be directed to the Manager of Volunteers at luvina.cooley@delaware.gov.


Program: Brandywine Zoo

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Is Ongoing

Zip Code: 19802

Allow Groups: Yes