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.
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.
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 all NEW ZooTeens and returning ZooTeens that are interested in being ZooCamp Assistants
- Participation in one training session for ALL ZooTeens and a separate additional training for teens selected to be ZooCamp Assistants
Cost
There is a fee of $100, due after acceptance into the program
Need-based scholarships available upon request.
Summer 2021
- Applications are due May 20
- Group interview for ZooCamp Assistants (interested returning ZooTeens only) on June 2 from 6-8pm
- Group interview for NEW ZooTeens on June 8 OR 9 from 6-8pm
- Training session for teens selected to be ZooCamp Assistants on June 19 from noon-4pm
- Training session for ALL ZooTeens on June 26 OR 27 from 10am-4pm
- Program runs July 5 – August 13
- ZooTeen Celebration on August 14 (time TBA)
We are no long accepting applications for the summer 2021 program. Thank you!
Questions? Please contact 585.336.7213 or zooteen@senecazoo.org
Or check out our FAQ!
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