Arboretum Interpreter

Volunteer

Expand your knowledge of the Arboretum and share your passion for plants with others. As an Arboretum Interpreter, you will be trained to talk with visitors in casual interactions, one-on-one or with small informal groups. You’ll help people find their way through the landscape, explore the fascinating world of plants, communicate how the Arboretum is a living museum, and make Arboretum history come alive. Read an article about the Interpreters from the spring 2010 Silva and an Interpreter profile from spring 2011.

How does it work?

Arboretum Interpreters are trained to talk knowledgeably about the Arboretum and plants. In addition to training on Arboretum history, plant terminology, and the landscape, volunteers learn interpretive techniques to effectively engage with visitors. Arboretum Interpreters are trained to use kits in various locations in the landscape. The portable kits include props, activities, study sheets, and other materials. Interpreters learn the kit during the training period, then pair up with with a veteran Interpreter during a “try-out” period immediately after training.

Responsibilities and time committment

• Attend all five mandatory training days. Note: Training is over for 2011. If you would like to be contacted when the next training is offered, please call Julie Warsowe at 617.384.5253 or send an email.
• After the training, continue to expand your knowledge of plants, Arboretum history, and interpretive techniques, independent study, periodic evaluation, and by attending special “refreshers,” lectures, and tours for volunteers.
• Commit to at least one season of volunteering, a minimum of four shifts.
• Shifts occur on weekends during peak seasons (Saturdays and Sundays in May, June, September, and October, plus peak weekdays in May).
• Shifts are in two-hour time blocks (there is some additional setup and/or breakdown time required)

Required skills & abilities

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; fluency in English (languages besides English are a plus!).
• Ability to work independently.
• Enthusiasm for interactions with people of all ages and backgrounds.
• Interest in learning more about the plants and history of the Arboretum.
• Interest in the environment and enthusiasm about the importance of plants.
• Desire to continuously gain new knowledge and share it with others.
• Ability to walk outdoors, remain standing for up to three hours, and transport a wheeled kit containing props and supplies.
• Dependability and punctuality.
• Knowledge of woody plants and the Arboretum landscape is preferred but not required.

Benefits

• Invitation to the annual Volunteer Appreciation Event.
• Access to the resources of oldest public arboretum in North America.
• Periodic free “refresher” classes, lectures, tours, and field trips on timely and interesting topics.
• Free membership after 50 hours of service.
• Gift certificates toward classes after 50 hours of service (restrictions apply).
• Library borrowing privileges after one year of service (restrictions apply).
• Training Notebook.

Location

The Arnold Arboretum, Boston, MA
Directions are available.

The Arboretum Interpreter program is a partnership—you provide your time, commitment, and enthusiasm and the Arnold Arboretum provides rich resources and experienced staff. It is also a wonderful opportunity for self-growth and for reaching out to Arboretum visitors to communicate the importance of plants in our lives.