ZooTeens
About the Program
NOTE: Seneca Park Zoo is committed to safely offering the ZooTeen program, as this program connects teens to wildlife conservation in fun and engaging ways and provide teens socialization with like-minded peers. We have, therefore, instituted safety precautions and continue to evaluate conditions, so we can make adjustments as needed. Current precautions are detailed in the ZooTeen FAQs, and we will notify teens and their families of any changes.
We are no longer accepting applications for summer 2022. Thank you!
The ZooTeen program gives young adults the opportunity to work together with like-minded peers from around the region, as well as with the Seneca Park Zoo education team, to help educate the public about the animals in our conservation care and the importance of saving animals from extinction.
ZooTeens act as ambassadors of the Zoo while exploring their interests in animals, ecology, and conservation. Throughout the day, teams of ZooTeens engage Zoo guests in fun learning activities at various stations throughout the Zoo. Activities may include the use of animal artifacts (biofacts), educational games, and answering guests’ questions. Returning ZooTeens have the opportunity to assist with ZooCamp or take on a leadership role as a ZooTeen Captain.
ZooTeens attend one training session at the beginning of the season and participate in skill building experiences throughout the summer. These trainings build confidence, communication skills, and background knowledge.
Who: Any teen who is entering grades 8-12 or will graduate high school this year
Where: Seneca Park Zoo
When: Teens complete a minimum of 48 hours of volunteering over six weeks from July – mid August. Volunteer shifts run 9:30am-1:30pm, 12:30pm-4:30pm or 9:30am-4:30pm seven days a week. Teens are able to sign up for shifts that work best for their schedule.
Requirements
- Application is available to teens currently in 7th-12th grade
- Submit a completed online application, which includes a brief essay about why you want to be a ZooTeen (300-500 words)
- Group interviews for new ZooTeens and for returning ZooTeens interested in being ZooCamp Assistants or ZooTeen Captains.
- Participation in one training session for ALL ZooTeens and separate additional trainings for teens selected to be ZooCamp Assistants or ZooTeen Captains.
Cost
There is a fee of $100, due after acceptance into the program
Need-based scholarships available upon request.
Summer 2022
- Applications are due May 5, 2022
- Interviews for NEW ZooTeens are on May 24 OR May 25 from 6-8pm
- Interviews for returning ZooTeens that would like to be ZooCamp Assistants are on May 17 from 6:30-8pm
- Interviews for returning ZooTeens that would like to be ZooTeen Captains are on May 10 from 6:30-8pm
- ALL ZooTeens must attend one training on either June 18 or June 26 from 10am-4pm
- ZooCamp Assistants must attend an additional training on June 25 from 1-4pm
- ZooTeen Captains must attend two additional trainings on May 21 from 1-4pm AND June 12 from 1-4pm
- ZooTeen program runs from July 5-August 12
We are no longer accepting applications for summer 2022. Thank you!
Questions? Please contact 585.336.7213 or [email protected]
Or check out our FAQ!
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