Volunteer
Are you a Volunteer? Access your portals below.
Volunteer Website | Volunteer SIGN IN
Do you want to Volunteer?
Contact
(508) 997-0046 x184
Museum Volunteers
Do you want to help ignite learning through explorations of art, history, science and culture rooted in the stories of people, the region and an international seaport? Consider joining the Museum’s Volunteer Program!
Working with a variety of departments, Museum volunteers provide mission-driven, relevant, engaging, and culturally responsive learning experiences for people of all ages through guided programs, tours, positive visitor interactions, increased access to digitized collections, and other activities that enhance the experience of thousands of museum visitors and program participants every year.
Volunteer opportunities include:
- Tour Guides and Visitor Engagement Volunteers: Conduct scheduled tours for school groups, adult groups, and general visitors; engage with visitors in museum galleries and exhibits.
- Digital Engagement Volunteers: Work as part of a team transcribing digitized primary source documents and manuscripts. Many transcribers work remotely with digitized whaling logbooks.
- Special Events Volunteers: Support special events by engaging visitors, providing information, and facilitating experiences for attendees of all ages.
- Apprenticeship Program Volunteers: Provide assistance to high school apprentices through mentoring, help with academic and life skills, and other program specific work.
Volunteer Benefits
- Join a community of Museum supporters connected through public service
- Welcome and engage learners of all ages from near and far
- Participate in lifelong learning opportunities and social events
- Access free parking in Elm Street garage using volunteer parking passes
- Receive discounts for Museum programs and purchases in the Museum store
Volunteer Training
If you are interested in becoming a Museum volunteer, please complete the online application. Staff will review new and previously submitted applications and contact selected candidates for interviews. A national criminal background check (CORI) is required for all new volunteers.
The next round of volunteer orientation and training will start in late February 2025 and run for eight weeks.
We appreciate your interest in the Museum and invite you to visit or become a member today!
Why do you enjoy being a Volunteer at the Whaling Museum?
Testimonials from our Volunteers
Susan G.
“I love working at the Whaling Museum and appreciate the opportunities and experiences that have been afforded me over the past 14 years of serving as a docent. Not only have I gotten to meet and interact with fascinating people from all over the world, but have formed close friendships with other volunteers whose interests and mine are both similar and widely diverse. The museum training we get in science, art, and local history is thorough and comprehensive and helps to keep one’s mind sharp and active. In addition, the perks are many, including special invitations to gallery openings, lectures and art exhibits.” – Susan G.
David B.
“Volunteering at the Museum is all I hoped it would be… I love working in a well-run, dynamic organization with interesting and friendly colleagues. The Museum challenges me to learn, and allows me to indulge my love for teaching and acting.” – David B.
Maureen M.
“Watching the faces of the young children as they see the whale skeletons for the first time and to see their eyes widen in amazement is such a joy! And to be able to give them information that they can relate to and understand is so very rewarding.” – Maureen M.
Louisa M.
“It is one of the most rewarding experiences I have had since retiring from teaching. Being new to the area, this opportunity has given me a wonderful perspective on the South Coast and the rich history of this part of the state. The volunteer work is very rewarding and it’s also a learning experience. Each time I volunteer, I learn something new or interesting from the other docents, volunteers, staff, and the wonderful visitors to our museum. I have also made some great new friends. I would highly recommend volunteering for the museum.” – Louisa M.
Sylvia M.
“When I signed up to be a volunteer, little did I know how it was going to broaden my lifestyle. The museum has been an extended family for me. Not only have I learned so much about our history, but found that giving tours, especially to the children, has been so gratifying. It really has been one of the best decisions I have made.” – Sylvia M.
