Each year over 171,000 people visit the Lincoln Children’s Zoo. For nearly 50 years, the Zoo has provided a memorable visit for people of all ages, due in large part to the hundreds of volunteers who work at the Zoo. Because the Zoo is a non-profit facility that receives no tax money for operating, we rely on our wonderful volunteers to help us reduce our expenses.
If you enjoy working with children—hearing their laughter and seeing wonder in their eyes—you should consider becoming a volunteer at the Zoo. Our staff will work to accommodate your schedule in coordinating shifts from 7 a.m.–8 p.m. There is always something fun for you to do.
Everyone has questions and we’ll make sure you have the answers! These volunteers are armed with informational sheets and animal facts ready to help our visitors learn firsthand.
No trip to the Zoo would be complete without a ride on the Z.O.&O. Railroad! During Zoo hours, the train provides rides to our visitors. Two volunteers are needed to ride the train—you get to decide who yells “All aboard!”
Guided tours provide a more unique experience when visiting the Zoo. Each year over 50 schools bring students to learn more about the world around them. Guides receive the training needed to present to a wide range of tour groups.
From June to September, the butterflies become a very popular exhibit at the Zoo. By law we are required to have this exhibit staffed at all times. A volunteer would not only enjoy watching the hundreds of butterflies move from plant to plant, but also help ensure gentle interaction with our visitors.
Bugs anyone? This new exhibit featuring a wide range of bugs is located in an air-conditioned building. Take a bug training course and then share your knowledge with our visitors.
Every day volunteers assist the zookeepers by cutting, dicing and mixing food for over 400 animals. These volunteers are an important part to providing the outstanding care we give our animals.
Lend a hand to the administration office by answering the phone, assisting with mailings, data entry, and other daily office activities.
Whether it is a birthday party, corporate event or Boo at the Zoo, volunteers are needed to make sure each group has a wonderful experience. A majority of events take place Friday–Sunday.
Do you have a green thumb? The Zoo is registered with the statewide arboretum as a botanical garden. Come learn more and help us care for the wide variety of plants that cover our grounds.
For more information about becoming a volunteer and scheduling opportunities, contact our guest services staff at 402.475.6741 ext. 129.