Volunteer opportunities
Annual Streets of Old Detroit Clean-Up June 2017
Ongoing volunteers make a long-term impact by supporting various activities at the Detroit Historical Museum and Dossin Great Lakes Museum, including:
- Acting as gallery guides to enhance the visitor experience.
- Assisting with collections and curatorial work at the Collections Resource Center.
- Staffing special events like galas, fundraisers, and Member Receptions.
- Maintaining exhibitions such as the Glancy Trains.
- Supporting committees, such as the Black Historic Sites Committee.
Special Note About Gallery Guides:
Gallery guides are essential ambassadors, connecting visitors to Detroit's history in meaningful ways. Enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and creative, they undergo comprehensive training before beginning their role. This includes:
- Completing four shadowed tours.
- Working one-on-one with the Manager of Education on exhibition content.
- Reviewing detailed exhibition interpretation manuals.
- Learning techniques for conducting effective group tours.
Training typically takes 4-6 weeks, depending on the candidate’s availability. Guides must commit to at least eight hours per month and continue their education throughout their service by:
- Attending meetings and study groups.
- Participating in gallery talks.
- Joining trips to regional museums and historical tours.
Application Process:
- Submit Your Application: Complete the application below.
- Background Check: A background check is required and will be paid for by the Detroit Historical Society. You will receive an email with instructions to complete this step.
- Processing and Placement: Ensure all application paperwork is completed before placement can be confirmed.
Note: Short-notice requests may decrease the likelihood of successful placement.
Ideal for those looking to volunteer on a one-time basis or for a set number of hours, such as fulfilling community service requirements or earning extra credit. Temporary volunteers assist with special events or short-term projects.
Commitment:
- Attend a mandatory 30-minute orientation with the Volunteer Coordinator.
- Complete assigned tasks before the Volunteer & HR Coordinator will verify service hours or complete extra credit paperwork.
- Honor pre-determined scheduling commitments.
- Follow all Detroit Historical Society volunteer policies and procedures
Application Process:
- Submit Your Application: Complete the application below.
- Background Check: A background check is required and will be paid for by the Detroit Historical Society. You will receive an email with instructions to complete this step.
- Processing and Placement: Ensure all application paperwork is completed before placement can be confirmed.
Note: Short-notice requests may decrease the likelihood of successful placement.
Volunteer Application
Thank you so much for your interest in volunteering with the Detroit Historical Society.
Our volunteer opportunities are currently limited as we take some time to reset and strengthen our volunteer program. This quieter time of year is always a slower season for us, and we are also using it as an opportunity to think carefully about how we can create more meaningful and engaging volunteer experiences across the organization.
We truly value our volunteers and the important role they play in helping us serve our community. Your willingness to share your time and talents with us means a great deal.
As opportunities begin to open up again, the application will be posted here. Please check back soon!