VolunTEENS

Share your passion for science and nature with Museum guests! VolunTEENS develop skills in public speaking, science literacy, and teamwork, all while collaborating with other local teens. VolunTEENS gain community service hours needed to graduate high school while experiencing the Museum’s Backyard, Butterfly Pavilion, or Observatory.

VolunTEENS interact with guests of all ages at interpretive tables, facilitate science games, and help kids connect to nature throughout the Museum. VolunTEENS should be prepared to get their hands dirty and share an excitement for nature with guests.

Museum VolunTEENS exploring the Mission Creek

Applications for next summer open April 1, 2026.

VolunTEEN Requirements and Commitments

  • Age: 13–17 years old
  • Must be available for a two hour shift on Saturdays or Sundays during Museum hours  (10:00 AM–5:00 PM)
  • VolunTEEN shifts run from May 23–September 6
  • Eligible applicants will be scheduled for a maximum of 16 shifts and will miss no more than 4 shifts of their 2026 summer schedule.
  • Required to purchase a shirt of their choosing from the Museum Store as their uniform. Uniform costs are waived for VolunTEENS with SNAP/Cal Fresh EBT
  • Responsible, communicative, and passionate about nature!

VolunTeen help kids connect to nature throughout the Backyard, Teen holding the Mystery box

2026 VolunTEEN Program Dates 

  • Applications for summer 2026 open April 1, 2026
  • Applications are due April 30, 2026
  • Backyard Training: May 16, 2026, Noon–2:00PM
  • Butterfly Pavilion Training: May 16, 2026, 2:00 PM–4:00 PM
  • Observatory Training: May 17, 2026, 2:00–4:00 PM
  • No shifts on Saturday, June 27 or Saturday, July 4

VolunTEENS presenting tours to museum guests

For more information about the VolunTEEN Program, contact Teen Programs Manager Haylee Rosso at hrosso@sbnature2.org or 805-682-4711 ext. 170.