Property Ambassador - Bird Park

Opportunity Overview:
A visit to Francis William Bird Park is a detour into nature in pursuit of play, no matter your age. Rolling fields lined by tree groves, a trio of ponds, and gurgling brooks comprise a lovely, organic tableau. The abundance of carefree recreation is testament to park designer John Nolen—a disciple of Frederick Law Olmsted—and his belief that a mixture of relaxation and active play should be parts of the park experience.
 
If you enjoy being outdoors, speaking with the public and sharing your love of nature . . . this volunteer opportunity is for you! The Trustees seeks Ambassadors to interact with the public while telling visitors about the history of the property, explaining the benefits of membership, promoting upcoming events and offering tips on how to reduce their impact on the environment while enjoying all the beauty of Bird Park. The ideal candidate is outgoing, cheerful, professional, and knowledgeable in their work. Schedules are flexible, but we would prefer 2, two-hour shifts each month.

Reports to: Engagement Manager

Covid-19 Volunteer Safety:
The health and safety of Trustees’ volunteers, staff and visitors is our top priority.

• If you are not feeling well, please stay home
• If you have been in contact with someone with Covid-19 or someone displaying symptoms of Covid-19, please stay home
• Volunteers will be required to wear masks while on property
• Volunteers will be required to maintain proper social distancing
• Volunteers will be required to wash hands or use hand sanitizer upon arrival to the property

Responsibilities (may include but are not limited to the following):

• Interact with visitors (like thanking dogwalkers obeying the rules)
• Answer questions about the property, trails and activities
• Promote the Trustees’ mission and provide membership information
• Supply Engagement Manager’s contact information to those with questions/concerns about the park (you’re unable to address) or those interested in joining, getting a photography permit, or volunteering
• Assist with special programs on an occasional basis
• Assist with light property clean-up, if needed
• Assist with administrative projects such as updating bulletin boards, restocking pamphlets & flyers
• Adhere to The Trustees safety and COVID-19 protocols
• Log volunteer hours weekly

Qualifications:

• Have reliable transportation to the property
• Demonstrate good communication skills
• Desire to meet with the public, share knowledge of the property and the Trustees
• Dress in appropriate clothes and footwear for varying weather conditions
• Flexible and independent
• Familiarity with Francis William Bird Park [preferred, but not required]
• Knowledge of the ecology and geology of the area [preferred, but not required]
• Ability to walk on a variety of surfaces: grass, pavement, uneven surfaces
• Ability to pick up lightweight objects from ground level
• Minimum age: 18 years old

Time Commitment Needed:
We are looking for volunteers who are willing to work at least two, two-hour shifts each month.

For more information
Contact the Volunteer Services Team at volunteer@thetrustees.org

To explore other volunteer opportunities, visit our volunteer page at http://volunteer.thetrustees.org/
 
More about The Trustees
Founded by landscape architect Charles Eliot in 1891, The Trustees has, for more than 125 years, been a catalyst for important ideas, endeavors, and progress in Massachusetts. As a steward of distinctive and dynamic places of both historic and cultural value, The Trustees is the nation’s first preservation and conservation organization, and its landscapes and landmarks continue to inspire discussion, innovation, and action today as they did in the past. We are a nonprofit, supported by members, friends and donors and our 116 sites are destinations for residents, members, and visitors alike, welcoming millions of guests annually. www.thetrustees.org.
 
Inclusive Spaces for All
We are committed to providing a welcoming environment for all. Together, alongside our partners and volunteers we are creating inclusive spaces of community for people of all backgrounds to enjoy and preserving these open spaces for everyone, forever. We are committed to inclusion across race, gender, age, religion, identity, ability, and experience.
 
The Trustees is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal employment opportunity for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, military service, application for military service, veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law. The Trustees makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.