Costumed Volunteer Interpreter
Assist staff and other volunteers with the interpretation and animation of the museum and grounds to museum visitors.
Position Responsibilities:
- Willingness to learn and explain the history or the museum, buildings, and grounds to visitors.
- Read background information and prepare for tours and events.
- Dress in and maintain an historic reproduction costume.
- Work as a team member with staff and volunteers.
- Open and close the museum if working alone.
- Provide tourism information if necessary.
- Assist visitors with gift shop purchases.
- Answering phones and taking messages.
Position Boundaries:
- Volunteers must be willing to accept direction from staff.
- Interpreting will be limited to the approved activities.
- Volunteers are required to direct visitor’s questions to a staff member when unsure of the correct response.
Qualifications:
- Willingness to read and learn new information and skills.
- Positive attitude and excellent communication skills.
- Enjoy working with staff, volunteers and the public.
- Ability to present to small groups of people.
- Self directed and willing to work with minimum supervision.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
Time Frame:
Backus-Page House Museum is open May 1 through Thanksgiving Monday.Tuesday – Friday 10am—4:30pm. Saturday, Sunday, and Holiday Mondays noon-4:30pm.
Some events in the off season may also require costumed interpreters.
Training & Supervision:
- Orientation for volunteers will be held periodically throughout the year.
- Informal feedback on volunteer activities will be provided on a regular basis by staff.
- Formal performance evaluations will be conducted in August upon request.
Staff Contact: Angela Bobier, Cultural Manager
Benefits:
- Unique opportunity to learn about the region’s history and heritage.
- Invitations to volunteer appreciation events.
- Use of the museum’s library.