FAQs

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.

• I would like to apply to be a Volunteer. What's the first step?

  Fill out the form here:

  https://outofafricapark.com/15412-2/

  Use the password volunteer to open the application.

• I would like to apply to be an Intern. What's the first step?

  Print and fill out the form here:

  https://outofafricapark.com/15406-2/

  Use the password intern to open the application.