"I have wanted to volunteer at Living History Farms for a long time. When I finally checked it out, it was beyond my expectations.”
"Living History Farms has historical accuracy, appealing activities, a dedicated staff, and a variety of opportunities for volunteers, and for me, the irresistible chance to visit the past.”
Volunteers have been an integral part of Living History Farms since the beginning. Not only do the special talents and commitment of our volunteers contribute to our success, but we also strive to give our volunteers a rewarding and exciting experience. Potential volunteers for on-going positions are interviewed so that a careful placement can be made, and benefits include season admission passes, opportunities to socialize with volunteer and employee staff, and an annual volunteer recognition event.
We're often asked, “Do you need to have a history degree to volunteer?”, or “Do I have to come from a farm background?” No, you don’t. What you do need is a willingness to learn and have fun. The majority of volunteer positions with Living History Farms are available from May 1st through mid October, but other “behind-the-scenes” positions are available all year long. We offer a wide variety of experiences and time commitments, and welcome the involvement of families and groups of people who want to have a fun time together.
If you are interested in volunteering at Living History Farms, fill out a volunteer interest form or download a brochure!
On-going VolunteersOn-going volunteers assist the museum throughout the season in areas such as: Historic Site PositionsDemonstrate the daily activities of four time periods in Iowa’s history, explaining the methods and techniques to museum visitors. Period clothing and training are provided. We currently have openings at the 1700 Ioway Farm, 1850 Farm, 1900 Farm, Doctor’s Office, Flynn House, Law Office, Implement Dealership, Drug Store, Blacksmith Shop, General Store, Broom Shop, Print Shop, Bank, Millinery Shop, Newspaper Office, and Church. Visitor ServicesAssist in a wide variety of activities such as gardening and grounds keeping, , transporting visitors in tractor carts, hosting an exhibit or hands-on activity area, and assist with fundraising efforts. Special EventsHelp with many outdoor activities such as games, contests, concession tasks, and greeting our visitors for fun events such as our Family Easter Party, and Family Halloween Nights. Day CampTeens volunteers that are at least 14 years old by June 1st, in combination with college interns, supervise the daily activities of our popular, summer Day Camps. Volunteering for Day Camp involves a minimum participation of one-two weeks during the summer. Junior Counselor Application Process for Summer 2012: In late January, Junior counselors from the summer of 2011 will be invited to return in the summer of 2012. Starting March 1st, potential new Junior Counselors may download an application from our website and return via mail no later than May 1st. Click here for more information on the Junior Counselor position and application process > One-Time VolunteersOne-time volunteers help out at special events such as Easter and Family Halloween Nights, or assist in periodic grounds-keeping or maintenance projects. |
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If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Jan Milroy, Manager of Volunteer Services, at 515-645-9818 or volunteers@lhf.org, fill out a volunteer interest form or download a brochure!
