# Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program

The Saint Louis Zoo's year-round teen volunteer educator corps: high schoolers 15+ lead conservation education for visitors and kids' programs, with monthly meetings and training. Applications open Jan 1, due Feb 15 each year.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Saint Louis Zoo |
| Category | volunteer |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | 2027-02-15 (verified 2026-07-06) |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | St. Louis, MO |
| Apply | https://stlzoo.org/education/education-programs/zoo-alive-volunteers |

## About this program

# Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program

Zoo ALIVE (Active Leaders in Volunteer Education) is the Saint Louis Zoo's year-round volunteer educator program for high-school-age teens. Members strengthen their connection to the natural world and build leadership skills while addressing conservation issues through education, action projects, and Zoo initiatives at one of the country's major urban zoos in Forest Park, St. Louis.

## What You'll Do

- Lead educational activities for Zoo visitors and help run weekend programs for kids, classes, and overnights
- Assist with the Zoo's summer camps — new volunteers complete orientation, camp training, and two weeks at summer day camp
- Take part in conservation action projects, citizen-science efforts, and campaigns for endangered species
- Attend a monthly meeting (typically the first Sunday, 5–7:30 p.m.) and at least two Zoo volunteer activities per month
- Join nature trips and explore conservation and animal-care careers alongside Zoo professionals

## Who Should Apply

Mature, responsible teens who will be at least 15 years old by May 1 of the application year, enjoy working with children, and are interested in animals and conservation. No experience is necessary, but Zoo ALIVE is a year-long commitment with limited positions: applications open January 1 and materials are due by February 15, followed by a required group interview session, with notifications in mid-April.

## Outcomes

Volunteers build a sustained record of conservation-education service at a major accredited zoo, develop public-speaking and leadership skills teaching real audiences, and gain insider exposure to zoo, wildlife, and conservation career paths.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the application deadline for Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program?

The application deadline is February 15, 2027 (deadline last verified July 6, 2026). Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program?

Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program online or in person?

Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program is an in-person program based in St. Louis, MO.

### How do I apply to Zoo ALIVE Volunteer Program?

Apply directly through Saint Louis Zoo's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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