Volunteer in Henson Robinson Zoo

Zoo

Springfield Park District’s Henson Robinson Zoo is home to animals native to Australia, Africa, Asia, & North and South America. Take a walk through our naturalistic exhibits that house more than 90 species of native & exotic animals. Each animal has a captivating history and a future that we work to preserve.

Volunteering

Designed to bring a link between humans and the natural world, the zoo facilitates conversation and compassion towards the spectrum of life that surrounds us. Joined by our volunteers of various talents, experience, and ages, we endeavor to create understanding of our animals through personal interactions. With animal ambassadors accompanying us, we allow guests to consider how they have contributed to their life and how our community can contribute to theirs. Every talent is unique and contributes a stronger chance for our animal kingdom.

Teens

Teen volunteers have the unique ability to reach out to children and other youth. As curiosity develops, many teens are left wanting to embrace the natural world and a growing desire for impact in a meaningful way. At this facility, teens can experience hands-on and unforgettable engagement style learning. Alongside zookeepers, some of whom have lived alongside rangers in the front lines of animal conservation, teens can begin to develop significant savvy in career fields such as zoology, zookeeping, conservation, veterinary occupations, public speaking, education, public relations, and more. It is a perfect opportunity for teens to provide for their communities in a fun and safe environment. Additionally, the volunteer program provides opportunities for homeschool teens to learn and engage with the sciences while providing educational engagement.

Adults

Various backgrounds present meaningful value in the protection and appreciation of these animals. Engage with new ideas and concepts, encounter the animal kingdom at your finger tips, follow your curiosity with conversation with field professionals, learn what it takes to preserve, and give a lasting and genuine impact on families. Mentor new youth from your experience. Be the change in conservation.