Volunteer Opportunities

Application (PDF) | E-mail | Phone 785-628-5684

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering provides hand-on experience in the museum field, educational opportunities, and a chance to help your community - all in a pleasant and interesting atmosphere!  In addition, volunteers are treated to special events including opportunities to participate in behind-the-scenes work, field trips, special programs, and social gatherings.  Almost anyone can volunteer, no experience is necessary!  On the job and specialized training is provided. Contact Brad Penka, a volunteer Program Coordinator, for an application, and join our volunteers in action!

What Opportunities are Available?

Opportunities to volunteer at the museum abound.  Volunteer options include:

1) those who can work on a regularly-scheduled basis (even if only a few hours per week),

2) those who can work on an occasional basis for special projects and,

3) those on stand-by who—like substitute teachers—might be willing to work on a moment’s notice(no obligation if called).

Admissions Desk Attendants
Desk attendants answer visitors’ questions, orient visitors to the museum and sell tickets and memberships.  Shifts are generally two-hours in length and are available weekdays and weekends.  On-the-job training is provided.

Docents          
Docents are highly-trained individuals who provide guided tours for organized groups.  Specialized training is required.

Gallery Attendant
Gallery Attendants assist museum visitors in galleries, provide basic security for museum displays, and can act as interpreters for the various exhibits.  Shifts are generally two hours in length.  On the job training is provided.

Museum Store Assistant
Volunteers assist with operation of the museum story by stocking merchandise, helping with special promotions, and providing customer services.  Shifts are generally two hours in length and are available weekdays and weekends.  On-the-job training provided.

Office Assistant
Office Assistants answer the phone and help with basic office tasks.  A variety of opportunities are available with flexible hours. 

Special Projects Volunteer
From time to time, persons care called upon to assist with specific projects, such as packing and unpacking traveling exhibitions.  Individuals with specialized skills, such as artists, woodworkers, machinists, computer programmers, etc. occasionally are needed to help with exhibit development, fabrication, and construction.  Hours are flexible and some projects may be work-at-home.  Some training is required.  

Who Can Volunteer?

The volunteers program is open to all interested individuals, retirees, working persons, or students will find a place at Sternberg Museum.  The only requirement is that volunteers must be at least 16 years of age.  Younger volunteers may be considered on a case-by-case basis, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  Our volunteers come to us with a diversity of skills and interest.  Whether you have an interest in natural histpry or just enjoy working with people, there are numerous opportunities to expand your horizons.  Experience is not required – we will ensure that you have the training and support needed.  For more information, contact Brad Penka, Volunteer Program Coordinator or call 785-628-5684.

How Do I Get Started?

To become a volunteer, you must first complete an application.  An application form is available on this site in PDF format. Otherwise, you may call or stop by the museum.  You will then meet the Volunteer Program Coordinator to determine the best placement based on your individual interests and schedule.  A general orientation and safety training is also required for all volunteer.  If you have any questions, please give us a call or stop by the museum weekdays between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.