Volunteering at Black Hill
The volunteer force at Black Hill Visitor Center is a diverse group of individuals and families who support our center's interpretive programs in a number of ways. Volunteers may also work alone on projects such as wildlife photography, artwork for brochures and exhibits, biological inventories, a nd office/computer support. Every volunteer position is tailored to meet the needs and expertise of the individual. Training is provided for volunteers seeking new skills.
Volunteers hold positions as:
- Bluebird nest box monitors
- Native plant gardeners
- Flying squirrel feeders
- Naturalist aides. Naturalist aides assist staff naturalists with a variety of programs including: kayaking, fishing, hiking, canoeing, stargazing, pontoon boat rides, nature crafts, storytimes, van trips, and special events.
- Volunteer Naturalists
- Visitor Center Host
We have a special position to fill:
Black Hill Visitor Center Host
Do you enjoy working with people? Our Volunteer Host/Hostess greet the public, answer questions from the public, check people in for programs, work with Nature Center Staff, and answer telephone calls. They may occasionally help with office work, computer work, program preparation, and exhibits. Volunteer Host/Hostesses are people-oriented and take pride in their role as representatives of the Montgomery County Parks Department.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Learn about the program offerings, resources and interpretation.
2. Greet visitors.
3. Answer visitor inquiries or direct to appropriate staff.
4. Take messages for staff.
5. Answer telephone inquiries or direct to appropriate staff.
6. Occasionally help with office administrative work, computer work, and program/exhibit preparation.
7. Check people in for programs.
8. Water plants and outdoor gardens.
Minimum age of volunteers: 18
Black Hill Regional Park Visitor Center,
Boyds
Contact ~ Denise Gibbs at 301-528-3482 or MCP-BKSDVolunteers@montgomeryparks.org
Volunteer Naturalist Training
Our Volunteer Naturalists are trained to conduct interpretive programs on a variety of natural history topics including meadows, butterflies, streams and lakeshore life. This can be a rewarding opportunity to share your knowledge and love of the natural world with families and school groups. It also provides opportunites to enhance your interpretive skills and aquire new knowledge of local natural resources. Continuing education/training is provided by the professional Naturalist Staff. Volunteers in this position become an integral part of our interpretive staff and program.
Benefits for Volunteers
Besides gaining satisfaction from offering support to the center's interpretive program, volunteers may also enjoy other benefits such as:
- Working outdoors in a beautiful setting
- Participating in and developing skills in new outdoor activities
- Learning local natural and cultural history during training sessions and trips with the naturalist staff
- Developing new friendships with other volunteers
- Recognition and awards for service
- Attend naturalist-led programs for free
- Attend seasonal naturalist-led trips and tours held just for our volunteers
Montgomery County Department of Parks