Get Excited About The Night Sky and Volunteer As Part of Our Astronomy Team!

Our Outdoor Connections teams create the learning environment to help individuals build skills to be successful in many activities. AND Volunteers are an important part of our team!! This training is for those interested in volunteering with an emphasis on astronomy.  We have resources that the community can use, and the one we will focus on is our education kit for astronomy.

 

Home school groups, local educators, and youth group leaders can borrow a variety of hands-on education kits for use with children in grades K-12. These kits provide teaching tools to help kids explore history, nature and conservation subjects through hands-on experiments and activities. Kits include activities, equipment, a list of supplies needed (where applicable), and a resource list.

*Education kits are loaned free of charge.

*Education kits are generally loaned for two weeks and designed for up to 20
children, with the sharing of equipment.

Our telescope kit is designed to spark curiosity and awaken enthusiasm for learning about space.  It features an Orion AstroView 6 Equatorial Mount Telescope with an assortment of filters and eyepieces for exceptional sun, moon, and night sky views.  We have included a moon map, laser pointer, and books about star mythology and locating night sky objects.  How do volunteers support this education kit? The best feature of this kit is teachers, scout groups, or other MetroParks' educators can request support from volunteers.  This training is designed to build your knowledge, your skills, and your proficiency in engaging others in the discovery of what is in the night sky.

 

Volunteers will learn the following:

Information about our astronomy kit - what's included, where it's kept, and how to transport if needed.

How to assemble the telescope

Learn some night sky objects

Learn to identify common constellations

An overview of frequently asked questions, how to support teachers in the classroom

Review resources for volunteers to continue their learning, and resources for those utilizing this educational kit.

Discover ways to engage others in the excitement of what can be seen at night

 

We will bring out the Education Kit Telescope to gaze at the stars!  Hot chocolate and cookies will be served!  Training starts at 6:00 PM in the Kettering Learning Lab. 

 

Additional Notes

• This program will be both inside and outside. Please dress in layers for warmth and prepare for whatever the weather may bring. We will try to do everything we can outside that would normally be done but will move inside if necessary.
• Using the telescope kit requires lifting 40 pounds for short distance transport as well as kneeling and bending.  We do use a cart to move the kit.

 

Eligibility

• This opportunity is reserved for volunteers who have completed their onboarding qualifications and have received an eligible background check. Learn more about our volunteer orientation and onboarding here. 
• Program Support and Program assistant volunteers are our ambassadors sharing their love and enthusiasm for the MetroParks, their excitement about what can be seen in the night sky, and discovering another way to connect with nature.

 

Help enhance our efforts, support our staff in broadening our reach with fun and educational activities, and making an impact in our community. RSVP YES to reserve your spot now!  RSVP required.   We look forward to seeing you!

 

Learn more about the Programming Volunteer Position here.