Volunteer

Conner Prairie welcomes those who would like to donate their talents to the museum. We offer volunteer opportunities that are mutually beneficial to the museum and the volunteer.

If you are interested in learning more about our volunteer opportunities, e-mail the Volunteer Office or call 317.776.6000. For those 17 years of age and older, complete an application and mail it to us. For those under the age of 17, refer to the bottom of the page for youth volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Volunteer in the Museum Shop
  Operate cash register, organize displays and stock merchandise.
• Volunteer with School Tours
  Greet and check-in school tours, provide maps and information. April-June, September-November.
• Volunteer for Special Events
  Lend a hand at special events like Headless Horseman, Conner Prairie By Candlelight and Glorious Fourth.
• Volunteer as Clerical Support
  A variety of opportunities exist in all departments aiding in mailings, data entry, inventory and general office support.
• Volunteer in Historic Crafts/Maintenance
  Assist woodworkers with behind-the-scene restorations and reproductions. Previous experience necessary.
• Volunteer as Gardeners
  Plant, maintain and harvest gardens in the historic areas.
• Volunteer as an Interpreter
  Receive the same intensive training as paid staff. Flexible hours.
• Volunteer in Collections
  Learn about history and artifacts while maintaining artifacts, researching items, as well as clerical support. Opportunities also available in the Sewing Guild making reproduction clothing and home furnishings, and weaving. Individual projects may be assigned as work at home or at Conner Prairie.

Benefits 

• Earn complimentary admission
• Discounts at the Museum Shop
• Flexible volunteer time commitments
• Volunteer recognition banquet
• Newsletter
• Meet others with similar interests

Youth Interpreter Program

If you are age 10-18, passionate about Conner Prairie, love speaking to people and enjoy the rewards of old-fashioned sweat and effort, this program may be for you! Youth Interpreters volunteer in the following ways:

• Interact with the public in modern clothes
• Portray costumed characters
• Do behind the scenes work
• Attend training sessions about Indiana history, guest service, and 19th-century period skills

Participants work a minimum of 120 hours per year. The focus of the program is learning. We aim to give great young people the opportunity to become even better through Conner Prairie's enriching environment.

Applicants must turn in a written application and come to a short interview. The 2008 youth interpreters have already been chosen, but applications for the 2009 season will be sent in October.  To request a 2009 application or ask questions about the program contact Sarah Morin, Youth Experience Manager at smorin@ConnerPrairie.org or call 317.776.6000 ext. 259. Those applications will be due in early January.