Our organization encourages the teamwork of employees and volunteers so that we can effectively educate visitors and restore and conserve the lands within the Preserve. Volunteers contribute their unique talents, skills, and abilities to complete physical and non-physical tasks, enable the paid staff to concentrate on the work for which they were trained, and educate the public about our organization and its cause.

You do not have to be a Master Naturalist or scientist to be a great tour guide, museum docent, environmental interpreter or greeter.  If you enjoy the outdoors and talking with people, and have an outgoing and friendly demeanor we welcome you to consider joining our program.

There are several topics to learn about, each with varying levels of involvement and information, so whether you are interested in becoming an expert tour guide or simply greeting visitors with trail maps and brochures, we have something for everyone. 

You can choose which topic(s) you wish to learn about, including:

• History of Oakland Nature Preserve

• Education Center and Museum

• Early Pioneer Living (including garden, outhouse, and washing equipment)

• Lake Apopka (including Tom’s Fish Cabin)

• Restoration and native plants and animals (including ONP program wildlife)

REQUIREMENTS

• At least 18 years old (or signed parental consent form)

• Friendly and outgoing demeanor

• Comfortable standing for long periods

• Desire to learn about Florida’s ecosystems, plants, animals and the history of the Preserve

• Minimum 6-month commitment and 4-weeks’ notice

• Minimum of 1 Saturday or Sunday per month, shifts are 10am-1pm and 1pm-4pm

Our Office Volunteers assist us with data entry and other various tasks on an as-needed basis. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator for availability.

Please email us at outreach@oaklandnaturepreserve.org or call 407-905-0054, to learn more or sign up! 

Our next scheduled Docent Training is Monday, February 1 at 1pm.