Volunteers are an essential component of Out of Africa Wildlife Park. We are seeking adult and teen volunteers who have love and respect for animals and a passion for connecting wildlife with people. Our volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds and experience, and provide critical manpower needed for daily operations, programs, special projects and events. No prior experience is necessary. As a park volunteer, you can get involved at a level that fits your time and commitment availability. Volunteer programs are listed here.
Volunteer Program List
Regular Volunteer Program
This includes long-term volunteers who adhere to an ongoing schedule and come routinely to the park to perform a variety of duties. Requires a medium level of commitment.
Keeper Aide Volunteer Program
Help animal caretakers care for animals by preparing diets, feeding animals, and cleaning exhibits. It’s hard work, and regular duties can be tedious, dirty, and monotonous. Outdoor work also exposes you to the heat and cold, depending on the time of year. Please remember that these positions are limited. Those individuals pursuing academic career objectives through internships will be granted first priority for available positions.
One-time Special Event Volunteer Program
This includes volunteers age 16 and older who work various stations and posts at special events. Requires a low level of commitment.
Group Volunteer Program
Groups of people who work as a whole, representing any type of organization, to volunteer collectively either during special events or periodically on small projects. Requires a low level of commitment.
Intern Program
College students who volunteer for a set period of time to gain practical and managerial experience within their field of study. Requires a high level of commitment. Click here to learn more information about internships.
Horticulture Volunteer Program
Put that green thumb of yours to good use on our grounds. We need volunteers who know about gardening to help staff with plant care, landscaping and more to help keep the park clean, pristine, and green. Requires a low level of commitment.
Education Volunteer Program
Volunteer educators assist park staff at special events (off-ground promotions, school outreach presentations, on and off-site animal demonstrations) and assist with set-up and tear down activities. Requires a medium level of commitment.
Let’s Get Started!
Once you’ve looked over the various volunteer programs and decided which opportunities match your interest, skills, and availability, complete and mail the downloadable Volunteer Application. Send your completed application to:
Volunteer Department
Out of Africa Wildlife Park
4020 N. Cherry Rd.
Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Each application will be reviewed by our Volunteer Department staff. Depending on our needs, you may be contacted for an interview or further assessment. Once the interview is complete and a manager has approved you to volunteer in his or her area, we must collect the $45 Volunteer Membership Fee and conduct a background check. Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive appropriate training on safety, park procedures, and policies prior to working. They will then be assigned to a supervising lead for specific duties.
Volunteers play a transformational role in providing an exciting and educational experience for the thousands of annual visitors who attend our safari wonderland. We invite you to join this dedicated team.
If you need additional information, please email us at [email protected]
Volunteer FAQs
How do I become a volunteer?
Please refer to the “Let’s Get Started!” heading located above.
How old do I have to be a volunteer?
Each position requires a diverse level of skills and experience, each with varying degrees of complexity. Therefore, there are different age requirements for different positions. Most non-animal positions require volunteers to be a minimum of 16 years of age, although there may be some exceptions. Most animal areas require volunteers to be at least 18 years of age. For public events we are able to take 16-year-old volunteers. Some adult-only events, albeit few, require volunteers to be 21 or older if alcohol is served.
How long does it take to become a volunteer?
It’s difficult to say with any specificity. Finding a suitable position can take anywhere from a week to several months depending on a multitude of variables.
What if I don’t pass a background check?
We will contact you for more information if anything questionable appears during the background check. Having a conviction does not necessarily disqualify you from becoming a volunteer. If for any reason you do not qualify, a portion of the volunteer membership fee will be returned to you.
How many hours must I commit to in order to volunteer?
Each position is different and therefore requires its own level of commitment. Please see the Volunteer Program List for that information. You will notice the levels range from low, medium, or high. This is purposely stated somewhat ambiguously, as we will take each person’s circumstance into consideration.
Can volunteers turn into a paid position at the park?
It is possible. However, there is no guarantee that any volunteer will be offered a paid position. When a position becomes open, volunteers will be given equal consideration as other applicants. If your goal is to become an animal keeper, please note that a proper educational background and applicable animal experience is required.
What does the Volunteer Membership Fee cover?
The fee helps us to offset the cost of your background check, processing your application, t-shirt, and training and company policies materials.
Can I upgrade my membership?
No. Nor can it be upgraded to an annual membership level. They are issued to individuals only and are valid while you remain an active volunteer at Out of Africa Wildlife Park.
It’s been several months since I submitted an application. Is there still a chance that I could volunteer?
Volunteer applications are active for 6 months. Some positions are not always available or may not match your skill set, hours of availability, and desired program. If a position becomes available during those 6 months, we will contact you.