Youth Volunteer
Opportunities
San Antonio Zoo’s Wildlife Allies Program provides meaningful life experiences that inspire conservation action through education, leadership, stewardship, and environmental exploration.
Teens, 14 – 17 years old, who are interested in conservation, animal care, science, and education will gain practical experience in educational interpretation while acting to secure a future for wildlife. Wildlife Allies support the zoo’s mission to Love, Engage, Act, and Protect animals and the places they live.
These like-minded teens who are passionate about nature will mentor future generations, inspire guests of all ages, help protect the environment, and participate in community science.
Upon acceptance, Wildlife Allies, must attend one session per month. Each session will cover a topic related to conservation, animals, and the zoo. Optional service opportunities will be posted in addition to the mandatory sessions.
Characteristics of volunteers that thrive in this opportunity:
- Passionate about conserving wildlife and the places they live
- Experience speaking with the public or willingness to learn public speaking
- Ability to volunteer outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
- Interest in a career in animal care, veterinary science, wildlife conservation, informal education, or other related fields
Session Dates and Details:
Fall 2022 $60
September
- Saturday: 17th
- Sunday: 25th
October
- Sunday: 9th
- Saturday: 22nd
November
- Saturday: 5th
- Sunday: 13th
You must attend one session per month.
Winter 2022 $60
Application for winter will be open from October 15th until November 15th.
December
• Saturday: 3rd
• Sunday: 11th
January
• Saturday: 21st
• Sunday: 29th
February
• Saturday: 11th
• Sunday: 26th
You must attend one session per month.
Spring 2023 $90
Application for spring will be open from January 15th until February 15th.
March
• Saturday: 25th
• Sunday: 26th
April
• Saturday: 15th
•Sunday: 23rd
May
• Sunday: 7th
• Saturday: 13th
You must attend one session per month.
Summer 2023 $120
Summer Wildlife Advocates Training for Returning Teen Volunteers (choose only one):
- June 12th – 16th
- June 19th– June 23rd
Hours: 9:00 am-4:00pm
Summer Wildlife Allies for New Teen Volunteers (choose only one):
- July 10th-14th
- July 17th-21st
Hours: 9:00AM-4:00PM
*Application for Summer Wildlife Allies will be open from May 15th to June 15th
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for Wildlife Allies?
Students ages 14-17 who are passionate about wildlife and conservation.
Will I be working with zoo animals?
Wildlife Allies have exclusive opportunities throughout San Antonio Zoo that offer unique glimpses into conservation as well as behind the scenes insights. Animal care shifts are not offered to individuals under 18 years old.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, please reach out to Liz.johanek@sazoo.org for more information.
What if I cannot attend a mandatory session?
There is no penalty, but there are no make-up sessions. Please refer to the monthly session dates offered to choose the Season that is right for you.
What supplies do I need to bring?
Please bring a lunch, water bottle, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
Who will be supervising the program?
A member of the Education staff is always present to support and mentor throughout the day.
How many volunteer hours will be available per quarter?
Each mandatory session is six hours. Additional opportunities for service are available seasonally and will be posted to the volunteer portal.
Can I apply if my birthday lands within a session (I.e., 13 turning 14, 17 turning 18)?
You must be 14 years old to apply.
If turning 18, you may complete your current session.
Can I add this to my college application?
Yes. Reference letters may be requested upon completion.
Are masks required?
If you have not received your Covid-19 vaccine you will need to wear a mask at the zoo. If you are vaccinated, mask wearing is at your discretion. Please note, this is subject to change.
How many participants are accepted per session?
Space is limited. Thoughtfully complete your application today.
Will this include a zoo membership?
Memberships are not included in the Wildlife Allies program.
What if there is extreme weather?
San Antonio Zoo observes safety standards in accordance with a severe weather matrix. If there is inclement weather, Wildlife Allies will be kept safe.
What is the application process?
- Submit your application online
- Once the application period ends, all applications will be reviewed
- You will receive an email from Wildlife Allies with your next steps
May I submit a Letter of Recommendation?
Absolutely. However, it is not needed for consideration.
What is the schedule for Wildlife Allies on session dates?
Each month, Wildlife Allies sign-up for one of three offered service dates. The program operates from 9:30am – 4:00pm. In the morning, Wildlife Allies explore an animal/nature/conservation related topic in-depth. This may include Behind-the-Scenes visits, animal encounters, special speakers, zoo tours, experiential programs, and/or group projects. Then, after lunch, they venture back into the zoo to engage guests to LEAP with mission-focused encounters. A member of the Education staff is always present to support and mentor the teens throughout their day.
Program refunds are not offered.
Please refer to mandatory dates to choose the session that is right for you.
MAKE YOUR ZOO VISIT AN ADVENTURE.
MONTHLY MEMBERSHIPS
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There's always something new to see at the zoo. Each year is packed with events and exciting additions.
