Garden Tour Guide - Volunteer Training
Thank you for your interest in supporting the garden tours at Five Rivers MetroParks. Garden Tour Guides play a vital role in enhancing the visitor experience, transforming a simple tour into an unforgettable journey. They warmly guide guests through the stunning grounds, sharing stories of history, purpose, and mission that bring the surroundings to life. With their passion and knowledge, they highlight points of interest, offering insights that spark curiosity and wonder.
As they assist visitors in their exploration, these dedicated individuals encourage a heartfelt connection with nature, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the beauty around us. Their enthusiasm fosters a sense of discovery, inviting everyone to not just see but truly experience the magic of the natural world. Join us on this adventure and become one of our volunteers who share the stories that bring the landscape to life!
**Some tours are conducted as a walking tour, while most are a ride-along on our trams.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE? This opportunity is open to individual long-term volunteers ages 18 and up, who have completed their volunteer onboarding qualifications (Volunteer Handbook Signature, Completed Volunteer Profile) and an eligible background check. New to MetroParks volunteering? Click here to learn more about how to become a volunteer!
GET STARTED!
Step 1: Click here to review the Garden Tour Guide Handbook
Step 2: Take the Garden Tour Guide Quiz below
Step 3: Complete the In-Person Garden Tour Guide Training
In-person trainings are offered in the early Spring. Check our Training and Events page to view upcoming trainings and to RSVP. While on-site, you will have the opportunity to ask questions, practice, and demonstrate the tasks required to qualify as a Garden Tour Guide.
SHADOW EXPERIENCES: If you would like to observe a garden tour, you can request to shadow a qualified volunteer and/or staff person. Volunteers may be asked to complete shadow experiences to gain practice and master essential skills. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org for more information.
Step 4: Become qualified as a TRAM Driver. Please click here to proceed to the Vehicle Driver training page to complete the Electric Cart Driver training.
Once your Garden Tour Guide and TRAM Driver qualifications are approved, and you have completed the in-person training, you can begin signing up for opportunities!
Want to Branch Out?
Want to explore other ways to get involved? There are many volunteer opportunities across MetroParks that offer similar experiences, skills, or ways to make an impact.
Exploring multiple opportunities is a great way to stay involved, build new skills, and experience different parts of the parks!
Have questions?
Reach out to the Volunteer Services team at volunteer.services@metroparks.org or 937-275-7275 and ask to speak with a Volunteer Coordinator. You can also join us at a Volunteer Open House, an in-person opportunity to learn more about volunteering with Five Rivers MetroParks.
Welcome to the Team!
