We've had good luck hosting a volunteer "open house." It is publicized
through our web site, our member lists, in our newsletter and through
the media. We have one weekend day where we invite anyone who may be
possibly interested in being a volunteer to come and see what all that
means. Then we describe what some of their duties are, have different
staff members come by to say how important volunteers are and why, give
a brief tour, sometimes behind the scenes, offer light snacks, etc.
Basically we want them to know how valued volunteers are, what is
expected of them, and how they can help the organization.
 
I also agree with a "job description" of sorts, to specifically let
people know what being a volunteer means. 
Good luck!
 
Tori Mason
Historic Farm Manager
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere
615-833-1534 x316
www.nashvillezoo.org/visitor_home.asp

________________________________

From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On
Behalf Of las
Sent: Wednesday, February 02, 2011 6:54 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [MUSEUM-L] Where to get volunteers?



I know this question is probably one of the 6 questions that gets
recycled all the time, but I could use your (great) input regarding what
you have used as effective resources for getting volunteers.  I am a
curator at a history museum where we staff the permanat gallery with
volunteers at the reception desk near the front door for 4 hour shifts,
each committ to once a week.  Many love that time that they use for
themselves to read, write, do follow up study notes on "last night's
bible study" or their homework.  Others like us to give them work to do
from the archives upstairs.  Either way, it's an important job, though
not always the most exciting because anyone who walks in the door must
see this person first.  Part concierge, part security, part museum gift
shop sales "employee," part basic "tour guide."  We have used the usual
resources and I need some fresh ideas.  Can you help?

 

Best,

Laurie



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