Become a Volunteer

The Conservatory's collection, and the public’s love of it, is cultivated in many ways by our dedicated volunteers. They provide educational tours for adults and children, greet visitors, work behind the scenes to assist with fundraising events and maintain the plant collection, galleries, and special exhibits. The next Docent and Jungle Guide training begins in February of 2011, but there are year-round opportunities available now!

Volunteer Opportunities

• Greeters welcome visitors, check tickets, and answer general questions.
• Gift Shop volunteers sell souvenirs to visitors in the Gift Shop.
• Docents provide visitors with information about the plant collections, the Conservatory, and provide guided tours.
• Horticultural volunteers work directly with our plant collections and Nursery Specialists.
• Children's Jungle Guides lead 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th grade classes on scheduled tours through the Conservatory.
• Other volunteer positions include clerical volunteers, event volunteers, and Special Exhibit Docents.

Volunteer Requirements
The Conservatory requests that volunteers commit to two shifts per month for one year. Most shifts are 3-hours long. All volunteers are required to meet with the Director of Volunteer Services, complete an application, and attend a Training Program. Trainings vary from one 3-hour session to seven 3-hour sessions, depending on volunteer position.

For more information, contact Erika Frank, Director of Volunteer Services, at (415) 637-4326 or efrank@sfcof.org.