"We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give."
    ~Winston Churchill

Above all else, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is dedicated to the preservation of the Earth's natural resources.  We are proud to invite members of the community that share our passion to join our team as a volunteer.  Whether you are interested in plants, animals or people, we’ve got a job for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes a good volunteer?

You!  We are always looking for passionate, dedicated individuals who have a desire to learn more about our nature world and help care for our plant and animal collection.

What will I do as a volunteer?

Your job duties will depend on the position.  All of our volunteers assist our professional staff.  You may be cleaning an exhibit, transplanting a flower bed or talking with a group of students depending on your interest.  Each volunteer position has a specific job description.

Will I get to touch the animals?

We are a protected contact zoo and that means that there is always a barrier between human and animal for the safety of both.  Unauthorized contact with the animals is prohibited and is grounds for immediate termination from the program.

What is the time requirement?

Horticulture and Animal Area volunteers are asked to one 8-hour day each week for a minimum of six months.  Education volunteers complete about 40 hours of training and 50 hours of service.  Special Event volunteers work in 4-6 hour shifts as needed.  Horticulture and animal area volunteers work year round.  Education volunteers are seasonal (March through October).

What are the requirements to volunteer?

Adult volunteers must be at least 18 years old and attend an orientation and interview session.  Selected volunteers must acquire a TB test before they begin work.  Some of our work can be physically strenuous – to work with plants or animals, you should be in good physical condition.

When is the next orientation and interview session?

Orientation is held on the first Saturday of February, May, October and August at 10 AM in the Education Center.  Orientation will last about an hour and informal interviews will take place immediately after.

For more information, please call our volunteer coordinator at (405) 425-0275.