Volunteer Program Overview

Volunteers are an important part of Florida Oceanographic

Florida Oceanographic Society is a non-profit organization which was founded in 1964.  The Coastal Center, on Hutchinson Island, has been open to the public since 1994.  Our misssion is the driving force of this organization and staff and volunteers are the catalyst for change.

The volunteer program at Florida Oceanographic is successful because it attracts dedicated, enthusiastic and passionate people who live our mission.  Through our educational programming at the Coastal Center, visitors not only learn to appreciate our environment but also learn how they impact our fragile ecosystems and what they can do to prevent further devastation and depletion of our natural resources.

A variety of opportunities exist at Florida Oceanographic for volunteers between the ages of 15-80+.  Currently, we have over 250 volunteers integrated into every aspect of our organization.  Our volunteers take ownership and pride in working with Florida Oceanographic.  Together we help to preserve and protect Florida's coastal environments for future generations.  Volunteer at the Center, in the field or even your own backyard. When you find the opportunity that is right for you, please fill out and return the volunteer application form.

Florida Oceanographic's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship of Florida's coastal ecosystems through education and research.

New Volunteer Information Sessions and Orientations:

All new volunteers should plan to attend an information session and orientation sequentially.  All sessions will be held in the Manatee Room at the Coastal Center.  Please RSVP to Megan Roberts at 225-0505 x106 if you plan to attend.

Youth Volunteers (acceptance into program is required before attending)

• Orientation and Training: June 15 from 10-3:30 (please bring a bag lunch)

Upcoming Sessions

• Information Session: June 3 from 9:30-10:30 am
• Orientation: June 10 from 9:30-noon

• Information Session: June 16 from 10:00-11:00 am
• Orientation: June 23 from 10-noon

Summer Sessions

• Information Session:  July 6 from 1-2
• Orientation: July 13 from 1-3:30

• Information Session:  August 4 from 9:30-10:30
• Orientation: August 11 from 9:30-noon

Youth Volunteer Opportunities: Summer Camp Volunteer Exhibit & Program Volunteers   Year Round Opportunities: Education Department Aquarium Department Research Department Gift Shop/Admissions Development & Public Relations   Adult Volunteer Application (PDF)   Youth Volunteer Application (PDF) For more information call: 225-0505 x106 or email: mroberts@fos-cc.org		Benefits of Volunteering Meet new people, make new friends Make a difference in your community Share your knowledge with others Learn new skills  Become part of the solution to environmental issues Personal satisfaction Social gatherings Discount in the Gift Shop Free admission to the Coastal Center We are always looking for adult volunteers who enjoy working with children and families to help with our exhibits and programs or in the Gift Shop and at the Admissions Desk.  Please refer us to a friend or family member who might be looking for a worthwhile and enjoyable volunteer experience.