How To Become A Volunteer With The Maritime Aquarium In Norwalk

NORWALK, CT — The Maritime Aquarium invites anyone interested to sign up to be a gallery ambassador volunteer and "become a steward of Long Island Sound."

Members of the aquarium's volunteer team will interact with guests of all ages and help raise awareness of the facility's critical conservation efforts, according to a news release.

"The gallery ambassador volunteers are the heart of the aquarium," Ann Marie Lisi, the aquarium’s associate director of education, said in a news release. "We're looking for people with a passion for animals and the ocean to help us carry out our mission to teach and inspire guests to protect Long Island Sound and the global ocean. Volunteers help interpret displays, connect guests to animals like jellies and crabs at our touch tanks and more."

Last year, volunteers gave an invaluable 21,000 hours of service, according to the aquarium. Prior knowledge about the marine world isn't necessary to become a volunteer.

Selected candidates will be invited to attend a virtual group orientation Sept. 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Additional Zoom training sessions will be held on Sept. 13 and 22 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. In-person training sessions at the aquarium will be held on Sept. 15 and 20 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The application period is open until Sept. 2, and volunteers must be at least 18 years old. The aquarium especially needs volunteers for weekday time slots.

All Maritime Aquarium volunteers receive a free membership for two people, as well as discounts in the gift shop, Cascade Café, the 4D theater and more. A one-time $50 onboarding fee covers the costs of training materials and uniforms, and volunteers may apply for a fee waiver.

More information is available at www.maritimeaquarium.org/volunteer.