Community Service

My name is Miranda Shealy and I run the Fernbank Youth Interpreters (FYI) Volunteer Program for teens at Fernbank Museum. The FYI Program is an opportunity for youth to be directly involved in public events and education at Fernbank. FYI volunteers run discovery carts, sharing information about biology, archaeology, paleontology, and more with visitors of all ages. They also help with educational programming, activities on family event days, and have opportunities to tour and work behind the scenes with museum staff. 

Applications have opened for the 2026-2027 volunteer season. If you know any students who would be interested in interacting with the public and sharing their knowledge of science and natural history, please pass this opportunity along to them. We provide training to help the students learn about natural history topics and how to interact with museum guests of all ages. Applications are due by March 1 and can be found here: https://www.fernbankmuseum.org/support/volunteer/fyi-volunteers/ Please pass this email along to any other teachers or counselors that may have interested students.  

The FYI Program is a one-year commitment (June – May) , and teens are required to volunteer at least 45 hours per year. Volunteer ages range from 12 years old (must be 13 before September 1 of this year) to 17 years old. Volunteers age out of the program when they graduate from high school or when they are 18 years old at the start of the next FYI year (June). The FYI program is very competitive, accepting applications once a year and interviewing and accepting only a select number of applicants.

Hello, My name is Monica, and I am the Supervisor of Youth Volunteers at Zoo Atlanta. I wanted to share an opportunity that may be of interest to your science students who are passionate about animals, conservation, and science-related careers.

Zoo Atlanta’s Volunteen Program is designed to promote the personal and professional development of teenagers while fostering an understanding of wildlife conservation and animal care. Volunteens gain meaningful experience through public engagement, educational programming, and behind-the-scenes learning, all while supporting Zoo Atlanta’s mission. 

Program details:
Eligibility: Teens who will be 14–17 years old by June 1, 2026 and are currently enrolled in 8th–11th grade
Application window: Open now and closes January 31
rogram length: June 1 through May 31 of the following year Commitment:

Volunteens work toward a minimum of 160 service hours over the program year and participate in required trainings

More information, including expectations and how to apply, can be found on our program page: zooatlanta.org/program/volunteen-program/

Please feel free to share this opportunity with students and families who may be interested. I’m happy to answer any questions or provide additional information if helpful.

Best,

Monica Szczepanski (She/Her)
Supervisor of Youth Volunteers Zoo Atlanta
800 Cherokee Avenue SE
Atlanta, GA 30315
404.624.5882
teenvolunteer@zooatlanta.org
Stay connected: zooatlanta.org