Volunteer Position: Exhibit Docent

Man and woman walk down narrow hallway with artwork hanging along the walls

Docents’ primary responsibilities will include offering short 5 to 10-minute tours of gallery and exhibition spaces to visitors, and covering the main gallery spaces. The tours will be drop-in based, and the times advertised on the Lakeshore Grounds Interpretive Centre’s social media and webpage two weeks prior to the event. Docents are responsible for recording attendance information for each shift. Small upkeep and cleaning the gallery and exhibit spaces, as needed.

Based on interest level and performance of the individual, there may be opportunities to assist with research and script development with Interpretive Centre staff; and/or for participating in social media creation and curation related to exhibitions and tours.

Commitment

Volunteers are asked to commit at least 6 to 12 hours a month (2-4 shifts) for at least three months. Shifts and duties can, to an extent, be built around the volunteer’s schedule and tailored to their interests.

Required Skills

An interest in local history, culture, and storytelling
Ability to learn accurate, detailed information and present it to diverse audiences
Excellent communication skills and comfort with public speaking
Energy and enthusiasm for learning
Reliable and punctual
Respect, patience, and courtesy with all visitors, staff, and fellow volunteers
Teaching, research or previous gallery/museum experience is an asset
Experience with social media, Canva, InDesign, Photoshop is an asset

Training

Volunteers will receive training on the Interpretive Centre, and its activities, as well as exhibit specific information and scripts. Each volunteer will receive a digital welcome package that includes information, policies, and contact information prior to their training. One on one support from the Lakeshore Grounds Interpretive Centre staff is always available.

TO VOLUNTEER AS AN EXHIBIT DOCENT

Email a Cover Letter and CV to Jennifer Bazar, Curator and Nadine Finlay, Curatorial Assistant at info@lakeshoregrounds.ca

Cover Letter should include:

Whether you have visited the Lakeshore Grounds Interpretive Centre before
Why you want to volunteer with the Lakeshore Grounds Interpretive Centre
Highlight your experience or opportunities you have had related to the position description

Please include attachments as PDF or Word files