At Edelman Fossil Park & Museum, volunteers are stewards of our mission. No matter what background a volunteer comes from, whether they are a retired academic professional, a passionate teacher, a fossil collector, a student, or just an engaged member of the community, they are an essential part of what we do. Their diverse backgrounds provide new perspectives and interpretations of our exhibits and programming.

Volunteers act as guides in the exhibits, fossil identifiers in the quarry, trail maintainers, event help, citizen scientists, greeters at the front door, field trip escorts, program preparers, storytime readers, and more!

For students, volunteering can be a way to explore future career pathways, learn about topics hands-on, network with other professionals, and gain experience with science communication. For retirees, volunteering can be a way to remain active, continue learning, explore new interests, and create and sustain new friendships. Studies have shown a connection between volunteering and positive outcomes in an individual’s health and well-being. Whatever someone's background, our current volunteers act as mentors for new folks joining our team.

In a world where multiple crises are happening at every moment, people can feel isolated and overwhelmed. Volunteering can bring people together to work towards a common goal, whether it is a day-long cleanup project or the continued task of educating and inspiring the next generation in the sciences. Many people look for ways to get involved in their communities and meet new people but are not sure where to look or how to get involved. Volunteering with a local group or institution can provide a third space for those seeking new company, conversation, and perspectives while directing their energy to a cause they believe in.

Volunteers are a critical part of visitor engagement. They make visitors feel welcomed and provide a point of contact at different parts of the museum and quarry. Having an individual available to answer questions, whether it is about what hadrosaurs eat, what fossil a visitor found, or where the restroom is, makes navigating the physical space and exhibit content easier.

They also make the experience more personal, offering more one-on-one time and conversation with visitors so they leave with a deeper and unique understanding of the Cretaceous past, our fragile present, and ambiguous future. Volunteers are crucial to the impact of our mission.

We also rely on the keen eyes and care of volunteers to maintain our beautiful trails. Litter removal, weeding, planting trees, and identifying flora and fauna are only a handful of physical tasks volunteers do to keep our grounds clean and enjoyable. Our outdoor spaces allow visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the world we want people to more actively care for. It carries the reasons why we must act now.

We could not do what we do without the dedication of our volunteers. Our cohort shares time, knowledge and kindness with visitors and each other. Through the work of our volunteers, knowledge becomes a community tool. And there are always more opportunities on the way! If you would like to be a part of our amazing team, you can apply here.