Contact Info

Jackson Zoo
2918 West Capitol St.
Jackson, MS 39209
(601)352-2580

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We accept the following credit cards:
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Volunteer Programs

DocentsWhat can you do, at the Jackson Zoo? You can be a Docent!

Adult Docents are volunteers who specialize in educating the public about the environment and the animals at the Zoo.

Junior Docents are trained to assist with animal care in the Discovery Zoo.

Also read about our CIT Program and ways you can volunteer at special events.

 

Adult Docents

Joseph with AlligatorAdult Docents play an integral part in EdZOOcation programs that include: Zoorific Tours, Outreach/ZooMobile, Klassroom Keys, Wildlife Theater, PreZool, Safari Nights, and Animal Ambassadors.  They also work Special Events, and often spear head Special Projects.

Don’t think you have the experience?  NO WORRIES!  We will train you! 

Next training class will begin the Spring of 2010.   Get your name on the new recruit list today!

Docent Application (pdf file)

For more information contact:
Jackson Zoo EdZOOcation Department
601/352-2580 ext. 240
or email Zoo Docents

 

Teen Volunteers

Junior DocentJunior Docents -  This group of volunteers is geared towards advanced middle and high school students from ages 12-17.  A Jr. Docent is trained to assist with animal care in the Discovery Zoo, handle animals for zoo visitors, and help develop the public’s animal awareness.  Jr. Docents assist with zoo programs and events, which include theater presentations and Animal Ambassadors. 

Requirements:

  • Complete and return Application by May 16, 2010
  • Have a Good Report Card
  • Write 1-2 paragraphs on "Why I Would Make a Good Jr. Docent"
  • Letter of Recommendation from teacher (or a parent, if home-schooled)
  • Complete Interview with Zoo Staff

There is a $60 program fee to help offset the costs of training and uniforms. 

Volunteer Expectations:

Must volunteer a minimum of 8 hours PER MONTH.

 Desired Qualities:

  • Shows leadership skills among peers.
  • Ability to work alone or in a group setting.
  • Follows directions accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Interest in animal care and the environment (Experience in this area a plus.)
  • A positive attitude.
  • A willingness to work hard and get dirty!

Training Process:

  • Complete 3 days (8 hours each day from 8am-5pm) of training classes.
  • Pass the basic biology and identification test (at the end of training.)
  • Pass the basic animal handling certification on at least 2 "beginner" animals.
  • A 3 day group training session will be held during the last week of May after the school year ends. (Dates TBA) Individual training sessions can be scheduled during the school year. Call for more details.

Junior Docent Application (pdf file)

For more information, or to have an application mailed to you, contact:
Jackson Zoo EdZOOcation Department or phone: (601)352-2586.

 

CIT’s (Counselors-In-Training)

This volunteer program is geared toward advanced middle and high school students  (Ages 12-17).  A CIT assists the Camp Instructors in all ZooCamp activities to include: arts/crafts, Water Day, tours, games, snack/lunch time, puppet/theatre shows, and other education projects. CIT's also assist in instructor with supervision of campers.  CIT’s are asked to commit to working a minimum of one week of ZooCamp.  This is a great starter program for youths interested in getting more involved in the Zoo.

The requirements to be a CIT are as follows:

  • Completed Application
  • GPA 2.5 with no grades below "C" (Exceptions can be made on an individual basis with permission from the Curator of Education.)
  • Write a Short Essay ("Why I Would Make a Good CIT")
  • Letter of Recommendation from parent or teacher
  • Signed Liability Release Form
  • Interview with Zoo Staff
  • Attend 1-Day Training Session

The CIT 2010 training will be held in late May, dates TBA.

CIT’s can apply for any of the four weeks of camp during the month of June.

CIT Applications are due May 16th

Contact  EdZOOcation Department for more information: (601)352-2586.

CIT Application (pdf file)

There is an administrative fee of $35.00 that is due on the training date.

 

Event Volunteers

The events at the Jackson Zoo would not be possible without the hard work of many dedicated volunteers. From the people who help with the celebrity scoopers at Ice Cream Safari, and the ones who dress up as not so scary "monsters" and help us make Boo at the Zoo fun. Everyone who put in their valuable free time are important to us we want them to know…"We couldn’t do it without you!"

If you are interested in becoming an event volunteer, contact the Zoo’s marketing department or the Special Events Coordinator.