# Volunteen Program Zoo Atlanta's Volunteen Program promotes the personal and professional development of teenagers so they become leaders in animal science and conservation education. Volunteens serve a full program year, from June 1 through May 31, engaging Zoo guests on grounds while building advocacy, empathy, and customer-service skills and deepening their knowledge of animal species, care, and conservation. ## What You'll Do - Complete at least 160 service hours across the year: 100 in summer (June–August), 30 in fall (September–December), and 30 in spring (January–May) - Engage Zoo guests on grounds, sharing your passion for wildlife and conservation - Attend the mandatory five-day training week held June 1–5 before the program year begins - Learn about animal species, animal care, and conservation practice from Zoo Atlanta staff ## Who Should Apply High school students who are 14–17 years old by June 1 and passionate about wildlife. Applicants complete an online application with a short essay (written without assistance) and a recommendation from a non-family member; applications open January 1 and close January 31, with candidates notified of next steps by March 1, in-person interviews in March, and orientation in April. Volunteens pay a $30 orientation fee covering a name badge, uniform T-shirt, and access card — scholarships are available — and must provide a current TB test by June 1. ## Outcomes Volunteens log 160+ documented volunteer hours, gain real conservation-education and public-speaking experience, and build independence and leadership skills at one of Atlanta's premier wildlife institutions.