Looking ahead to fall 2026, Duke Gardens is seeking enthusiastic volunteers who are interested in ongoing volunteer opportunities as Garden Guides for School & Youth Programs, which require a commitment of two to four hours per week for a minimum of six months.
Garden Guides for School and Youth Programs
Are you a nature lover who enjoys engaging with children? Garden Guides are passionate about sharing their love of nature and educating thousands of youths through outdoor programs in the Gardens. You don’t need to be an expert or have a background in gardening, science or teaching! All you need is an interest in nature and outdoor learning, and a willingness to grow and learn with a flexible and friendly attitude. ***Training: Garden Guide training will begin in early September 2026, but opportunities to start learning about the Gardens are available by starting as an Ambassador during summer 2026. ***
Location: Garden-wide, outdoors
Days & Times Needed: weekdays, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., seasonally from February-May and September through November. ***Training: Garden Guide training will begin in early September 2026, but opportunities to start learning about the Gardens are available by starting as an Ambassador during summer 2026. ***
Qualifications & Skills:
Garden Guides must possess an interest in nature and outdoor learning, a willingness to grow and learn with a flexible and friendly attitude, and enjoy spending time with children, especially ages 4 to 13.
- Knowledge of the Gardens or willingness to learn
- Ability to work on a team of volunteers along with Education staff to lead and assist with children's field trip programs, primarily for elementary schools, periodically for middle and high school groups
- Ability to be creative, communicate with children and educate them according to program objectives, aligned with state standards
- Willingness to learn specifics of each program and to be able to implement or assist lead guide in execution is necessary.
- Ability to be outdoors in all weather and have the ability to move throughout the Gardens during a two-hour program
- Participate in Garden Guide trainings that require observing, shadowing and practice to become proficient in program preparation and presentations to students.
- Special Requirement: Background check required upon completion of training.
