The Palm Beach Zoo has opened online applications for 20 available spots in the zoo’s Youth Volunteer Corps (YVC).
Youth ages 14 to 17 can apply by printing out an online registration form and sending in the application, along with all required material. This is the program’s second year, and more than half of the volunteers from last year are returning again.
“We are proud of the progress we have made within this inaugural year,” Volunteer Services Manager Joe Landmichl said. “I was inspired to begin the Youth Volunteer Corps here at Palm Beach Zoo after participating in a similar one when I was 15. The positive impact that young people receive by volunteering at the zoo spills over into their schooling and everyday lives.”
Alex Yanes, a high school junior, already has 570 service hours with the zoo. “As a volunteer serving the organization for almost a year now, I have learned more about the role I have in the local community,” he said. “It has been great how I have interacted with various kinds of events and citizens that I haven’t seen before.”
Kristen Wentz, a high school senior, also plans to participate again. “My experience at the Palm Beach Zoo has been better than I could ever imagine,” she said. “It is an amazing place to interact with people, make lasting friends and expand your knowledge.”
An informational seminar about the program will be held Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Palm Beach County Library Main Branch (3650 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach). RSVP to volunteers@palmbeachzoo.org.
The deadline to apply for the YVC is Feb. 10, and space is limited to a total of 45 participants, with 25 spots already taken from returning volunteers. For more info., visit www.palmbeachzoo.org/youth-volunteer-corps.
