Beginner Environmental Leadership Program

Volunteers will begin in the Gallery Guide position in the following areas:

• One full week assisting with Camp H2O (Summer Only)
• Guest Interpretation
• Guest Engagement
• Touch Pools

All teens will also take the skills they’ve learned at Georgia Aquarium and apply them elsewhere through the completion of a collaborative community project.

Please note that there will be no behind the scenes positions available to teens. We do not offer court-appointed or school service opportunities.

1. Register for one mandatory virtual Information Session by emailing Volunteer Programs at volunteer@georgiaaquarium.org. This is your chance to learn more about our program and ask any questions you may have. One parent or legal guardian must be present on the virtual Information Session with teen. In order to accommodate as many people as possible, only one registration is permitted per teen (both teen and parent/guardian will need to participate from the same log-on).
2. If selected for an interview, teens will participate in a mandatory three-hour group interview. During interview days, teens will learn more about the Aquarium, participate in team building activities, and take part in a brief interview.
3. Accepted applicants will be notified within two weeks of their interview date. Accepted volunteers will be expected to bring a $45 Administrative Fee in the form of check or money order to volunteer orientation. Late fees will not be accepted and will result in removal from the program.

Applicants must be between the ages of 15 and 17 at time of application. (Anyone 18 years & above is eligible to become an adult volunteer by applying online via the general volunteer page.)

Due to the volume of applications and the limited number of teen volunteer positions, not all who apply will be contacted for an interview.

To join this program, each teen must:

• Be currently enrolled in high school or home school
• Confirm and secure all necessary means of transportation before applying
• Be available to volunteer at Georgia Aquarium for a four-month time period
• Provide a copy of their birth certificate to verify their age at interview
• Provide current government or school-issued photo ID
• Pay a $45 Administrative Fee at least one week prior to the start of their program
• Be available to attend one interview day at Georgia Aquarium
• Be available for and attend one full day of training at Georgia Aquarium
• Report on time for all training and volunteer positions in proper attire
• Provide all Aquarium guests, staff and volunteers with respect, accurate information, and assistance within the Aquarium guidelines
• Maintain a strong work ethic and positive attitude
• Demonstrate care & concern for wildlife and support for Aquarium’s mission
• Abide by Aquarium policies, procedures and code of conduct as set forth by the Georgia Aquarium Volunteer Program including all COVID-19 policies and procedures

• All necessary training
• Aquarium uniform shirt and name tag
• One Volunteer Pass valid for length of service
• “Dip Days” to educate teens about our research and conservation efforts
• Free parking during volunteer shifts
• Discounts in the food court and gift shop
• Invitations to exclusive events
• Invaluable job experience
• Opportunity to meet the Aquarium staff and other volunteers
• Opportunity to learn the ins and outs of Aquarium operations