ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain


ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
1 College St.
Burlington, VT USA 05401

Have questions about the program? Reach out to Billy Ernest (they/them) through email or phone...
Email: volunteer@echovermont.org  -  Phone: 1.802.864.1848 x149


Inspire the next generation of scientists in a fun and supportive environment! Hear what volunteers have to say about their ECHO experience...

External view of ECHO from the front looking toward Lake Champlain

"Volunteering at ECHO was a great experience for me.
Everyone was so welcoming, nonjudgmental, and
eager to share."

"Everyone was pleasant and eager to help with educating me about the day's shift. I appreciated the flexibility and time to learn more about other exhibits too."

Check out our current volunteering opportunities below! We can't wait to welcome you to the team. :)

This project was made possible in part by the
Institute of Museum and Library Services MA-10-19-0501-19
 

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Opportunities

STEM Activity Facilitator

https://content.betterimpact.com/files/agency/33433/PXL_20220420_191344857.jpg

For ages 16 years and older. Younger volunteers accepted case by case. 

Click here to fill out an application!

Did you know, that children as young as two years old are building a science identity? That means they're actively deciding whether they can or cannot participate in science.

The good news is... You can help them build a foundation that will inspire scientific exploration for years to come.

STEM Activity Facilitators guide guests through hands-on problem-solving activities by asking questions and encouraging guests to think like engineers. They help guests build a science identity and self-confidence. 

Anyone can live an engineering lifestyle! No engineering or science background is needed! 

 

What will I do as a STEM Activity Facilitator?

  • Lead hands-on science and engineering activities for guests of all ages
  • Help guests explore the Engineering Design and Scientific Processes through thoughtful conversations and questions
  • Empower guests to solve problems and think like scientists and engineers
  • Collaborate with staff and other volunteers to provide an excellent guest experience

Time Commitment:

  • Minimum of 4 months of volunteer service
  • Minimum of one 3-hour shift per week

What do I need to be successful in this position?

  • Enthusiasm for science and museums
  • Interest in facilitating hands-on activities and having conversations with members of the public
  • Interest in personal growth and improvement as an educator
  • Excitement for interacting with children and their caregivers

What will I learn or practice?

  • Facilitation techniques for hands-on science activities for all ages
  • Up-to-date STEM concepts for a variety of topics
  • Providing excellent customer service

And there are benefits!

  • 20% discount at ECHO’s Gift Shop
  • Free admission to ECHO 
  • Training and skills development opportunities
  • ECHO day passes and memberships
  • Appreciation events and community

 

Animal Care Volunteer

For ages 16 years and older

Click here to fill out an application!

Learn about and assist in the delivery of professional animal care typically provided in zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
 
Help care for native reptiles and fish, as well as native and exotic amphibians. Receive hands on training with professional animal care staff. Learn about animal behavior, proper diets, veterinary care, and habitat design and maintenance. Have fun and support environmental stewardship. 
 
Time Commitment: 
  • A full semester or summer commitment (usually 3-4 months).
  • Minimum of one 4 hour shift per week.
 
What do I need to be successful in this position?
Applicants should be able to work independently, be active, enthusiastic, detail-oriented, reliable, and willing to get wet and/or dirty! Occasional heavy lifting (up to 60 pounds) may be required.
 
What benefits will I receive as an ECHO volunteer?
  • 20% discount at ECHO’s Gift Shop
  • Free admission to ECHO for the volunteer
  • Free coffee & tea in volunteer lounge
  • Annual appreciation events
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Volunteer social gatherings
  • ECHO day passes, distributed quarterly
  • ECHO branded gear & gifts 
  • ECHO memberships
  • Letters of recommendation/reference

ECHO Mission Statement

ECHO inspires and engages families in the joy of scientific discover, wonder of nature, and care of Lake Champlain.