Sign Up to Join the Crucial Volunteer Corps of the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

NORWALK, CT – Pursue your interest in marine animals – and share your knowledge and enthusiasm with others – by becoming a member of the volunteer staff at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk.

Interviews for potential volunteers will be held on Tues., Feb. 10 and Thurs., Feb. 12 – each at 5 p.m. (You only need to attend one.) A training session will follow in March.

“Helping visitors, especially children, learn about Long Island Sound is personally rewarding and crucial in building public awareness about issues affecting our local environment,” said Lisa Slinsky, assistant director of volunteers and community service. “The volunteer program is vital to the mission of The Maritime Aquarium and its educational goals. Plus, it’s a fun way to join up with a group of people who have similar interests.”

Prior knowledge about marine animals isn’t necessary to be a Maritime Aquarium volunteer. That’s what will be taught in a five-week training course, which will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 7 to 9 p.m., March 10-April 9.

To sign up, you must be at least 15 years old and commit to volunteering for at least 100 hours – at four hours per week for weekday volunteers and four hours per month for weekend staff. Letters of recommendation, and other service award forms, will be signed after completion of the 100 hours of service.

Most Aquarium volunteers work as gallery guides, helping visitors to learn about the represented animals of Long Island Sound, from crabs and sea stars to seals and sharks. There are also needs for behind-the-scenes office and special-event assistance.

A $40 fee covers the costs of training materials and uniforms.

Advance registration is required for the group interview and volunteer training. To sign up or for more information, email lslinsky@maritimeaquarium.org or call (203) 852-0700, ext. 2225.

The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit institution whose mission is to inspire people of all ages to appreciate Long Island Sound and protect it for future generations. A vibrant and entertaining learning environment, it achieves this goal through living exhibits, marine science, and environmental education.

The Maritime Aquarium receives support from the State of Connecticut DECD’s Offices of Culture and Tourism.

Photo (contributed): Levi, a 10-month-old river otter, has joined another otter named Lew on display in The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. Levi came to The Maritime Aquarium from Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo.