Connect People to Plants as a Conservatory Ambassador

Comprehensive volunteer training program prepares docents to lead tours for adults or children.

Jungle Guides introduce elementary school students to the wonders of the rainforest. Tours are held Tuesday‐Friday from September through May at 10:00 a.m. and cover plant adaptations and tropical ecosystems.

Docents educate adult visitors about the Conservatory’s fascinating collection of tropical plants and the importance of conserving the rainforest and San Francisco’s stunning historic greenhouse. Docents give tours Tuesday‐Sunday.

Training Program
The 2011 training program has ended. The 2012 progam will be held in July and August. The Conservatory welcomes volunteers of all ages and experience levels. Trainees are paired with an experienced volunteer mentor to guide them through their first tours.

Shared Commitment
Just like the Conservatory’s plants, the volunteer program relies on regular watering and feeding. That’s why we ask all volunteers to commit to two shifts per month for at least one year. In return, the Conservatory offers monthly educational and social opportunities, free passes and discounts, and an engaging, flexible environment.

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.

Other Volunteer Opportunities

Special Exhibit Docents educate visitors on the plants and features of the current special exhibit.
Nursery volunteers work directly with our Nursery Specialists, usually on Mondays, to control pests, clean the galleries, and install exhibits. Some Nursery volunteers help maintain plant collections based on their horticultural experience and experience at the Conservatory.
Greeters welcome visitors, take tickets, and answer general questions.

Volunteer Requirements
The Conservatory requests that volunteers commit to two shifts per month for one year. Most shifts are 2-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 an hour-long session for Horticulture, Greeter and Special Exhibit volunteers, to seven 3-hour sessions, for Docents and Jungle Guides.

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

Volunteer Training Materials