Have FUN! Meet new people and enrich your life!
Consider a volunteer position today with the South Florida Museum and Bishop Planetarium, Inc.
At the South Florida Museum and Bishop Planetarium, Inc. volunteers play an integral role in helping the staff and board achieve our mission “To preserve, interpret, and communicate – through collections, exhibitions, and educational programs – scientific and cultural knowledge of Florida, the world, and our universe.”
Work with great volunteers and staff as you enhance your knowledge of Florida’s natural and cultural history, the environment, the universe and manatee conservation and care. You will make a difference in the lives of our visitors! Volunteer benefits also include discounts on museum membership, store purchases and the ability to earn free passes to the museum.
Training is provided and hours vary depending on the position.
Volunteer opportunities include the following positions listed below.
Planetarium
Greet visitors to the Planetarium area, start shows when guests are seated.
Aquarium
Learn animal care, assist with manatee food preparation, give presentations (if comfortable with this aspect), act as a spotter when staff are in pool to clean. Aquarium volunteers can start early as manatees eat an early breakfast! Those with dive certification may be able to be part of the dive team.
Collections
Collection volunteers help catalogue the collection, enter data into the collections database program, and assist in installation of exhibits.
Education
Program Assistant
Work with our public program educator to plan and stage programs for families and adults. Programs are generally weekend days, eves or weeknights.
Discovery Place Facilitator
In our hands-on room for children greet children and parents as they enter and help them "discover" the exhibits. Provide guidance for hands-on projects and read books aloud during story time.
Docent
Conduct tours for school-aged children and adults. Docents lead visitors toward a deeper understanding of museum artifacts and the history, people, and stories behind the exhibits. Training is provided and trainees may accompany experienced docents while becoming familiar with the exhibits. Qualifications: desire to work with children and adults, presentation skills, ability to climb stairs and stand for extended periods of time. Hours are generally M-F 9:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Volunteers may choose any days that fit their schedule.
Group Facilitator
Supervise children who are at the museum for our Field Journal program. Familiarity with the museum’s paleontology, archaeology , history and environmental programs required, training provided.
Escort
Lead groups of children to and from the Planetarium and aquarium area.
Museum General
Information desk
Greet visitors, share maps, answer questions and orient visitors to the museum. Volunteers in this position can sit for most of their shifts. Shifts available any day the museum is open, hours from 10-1 or 1-4.
Special Events
Assist with special events throughout the year, fundraising, Snooty's Birthday Party, exhibit openings, or receptions.
Office assistant
Help with our daily operations by performing general office work.