Volunteer at Fossil Rim

"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." — Elizabeth Andrew

Volunteering

If you feel a desire to become part of something awe-inspiring and bigger than yourself, think about joining our team of talented and dedicated volunteers. Their desire to preserve and protect animals in peril is expressed through their gifts of time and energy. They give back to the community and offer future generations a chance to be inspired by these rare and magnificent animals.

Without the volunteers at Fossil Rim, we could not accomplish the tasks set before us. With a large expanded territory, our facility attracts people from all over the world.

Fossil Rim volunteers and docents receive many fringe benefits: spectacular scenery, animal encounters, discounts, free access to the wildlife center and great people!

What Can Volunteers Do?

At Fossil Rim, volunteers are not locked into one job. They can volunteer in multiple areas and receive all necessary training. Volunteers act as ambassadors for our organization. They are knowledgeable of Fossil Rim’s history and its animal inhabitants.

Gardening Volunteers assist with the cultivation and maintenance of a diverse collection of flowers and shrubs. They maintain the beautiful butterfly garden in front of  
Children’s Animal Center.

Docents are volunteers that give tours of our 9-1/2 mile wildlife drive and have contributed an impressive level of volunteer hours. Junior Docents are ages 11 to 17 years and have shown a commitment to the survival of the animals in peril. Many of our junior docents are planning careers in wildlife.

Special Event Volunteers assist with large public events such as Spring Break or annual fundraisers.

Gerry Burgess, our High Point Volunteer for 2009 and 2010

Camps and Family Programs Volunteers assist participants or instructors. They can also learn to present programs.

Nature Store and Café Volunteers help the staff keep these retail areas interesting and inviting places to shop. Volunteers assist in customer service, merchandise display and organization.

Outreach Volunteers give community presentations about the virtues of volunteering and what our organization has to offer the community. They work with high school and college groups in volunteer projects.

Our tour guides provide an educational experience to our visitors and are trained volunteers with knowledge of animal behavior and habitat as well as the 25 year history.

Volunteering at the Children’s Animal Center is a hands-on experience. Volunteers assist with animal care and encourage interaction between children and the animals.

Fossil Rim provides a unique chance to experience Africa without actually leaving the US. The animals live in a safe environment where they roam free. This is a trip in itself, but to be a part of this experience is truly unforgettable.

Become a Fossil Rim Volunteer Today! Complete and submit the on-line application form and upon receipt, we will contact you regarding an onsite visit.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Meeting people
• Educational experience
• Dedicated conservation efforts
• International Initiatives
• Children Education
• Tour programs

For additional information about volunteering, call 254.897.2960 and ask to speak to the volunteer coordinator.

Already have all the information you need? Ready to help us make a difference? Use our on-line application form.

Volunteer Training

Volunteers at Fossil Rim are crucial to our organization and receive excellent quality instruction. Many of our prized volunteers train to give tours of our facilities, assist at camp, or help with educational programs. Others assist in our Children’s Animal Center while some do office work or assist with special events. Anyone who just wants to paint or build can also find an enjoyable experience while making a difference for wildlife.

Requirements

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old (younger individuals can join our Jr. Docents program).
All volunteers attend a training program, contribute at least 50 hours of service per year and attend at least three of the six annual meetings.