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People who volunteer at the Children's Museum are a very special group. They don’t mind noise and mess. They enjoy getting their hands dirty. They laugh a lot. And they love kids and learning.

 

 

Volunteer Profile- Kala Ferris

Children’s Museum volunteers are very special people. They don’t mind noise and mess. They enjoy getting their hands dirty. They laugh a lot. And they love kids and learning. There are 200 of these extraordinary people involved at the Children’s Museum. They are our shining stars. Each month, we will be featuring one of these amazing volunteers!

This month’s feature is about Kala Ferris, a volunteer who has spent over 100 hours at The Children’s Museum. She has assisted with day camp, hosting activities in our galleries and at many of our special events. She has been a friendly and enthusiastic addition to our volunteer team! We recently sat down with Kala and chatted about her experience with us at The Children’s Museum.

Why did you want to volunteer at The Children’s Museum?

First of all, I absolutely adore volunteering with the young visitors of the museum who are always enthusiastic about playing, exploring, and learning in the galleries. Most of all, I enjoy being a part of the visitor experience through encouraging the children to participate in crafts and activities, and by asking them questions about their knowledge on a particular subject related to the gallery, or even just asking how they are enjoying their time at the museum. 

How do you think volunteering at the museum will help you in your future endeavours?

As an aspiring teacher, my time at the children’s museum has affirmed my decision, and is providing me with an experience that I can include on my teacher’s college applications.  

What would you say to someone considering volunteering at the museum?

I would tell anyone considering volunteering at the museum that it is truly a worthwhile experience. Even if you are at first apprehensive about engaging with the children, do not fear because over time your interactions will become easier and more relaxed. As well, the fantastic staff at the museum is willing to guide you in the process and answer any concerns you may have.

How You Can Help!

There are 200 of these extraordinary people involved at the Children’s Museum. They are our shining stars. There are always plenty of opportunities for members of our community to get involved. These include:

• Doing demonstrations in our galleries
• Assisting with educational programs
• Helping with workshops for early learners
• Assisting with birthday parties
• Supervising crafts
• Taking on administrative tasks
• Working with our collection
• Helping with exhibits
• Assisting with day camps during school holidays
• Helping with special events
• Cleaning and maintaining our building and exhibits
• Participating on committees

Our need for volunteers is year-round, with our busiest times being summer holidays, March Break and the months of May and June when we offer special activities for school groups.

Volunteers undergo a formal screening process, for the protection of our vulnerable population of children, and anyone over 18 years old requires a criminal reference check. Training is provided, on-the-job and in special sessions. Required qualifications include a love of children, a desire to help, a bright smile and a positive attitude!

Our volunteers learn new skills, build resumes, make a real difference in the community and have fun! After three months of service, they also receive a complimentary membership which provides free admission to the Children's Museum and participating science centres across Canada, discounts on our programs, Explore Store purchases and at other venues through the Attractions Ontario Reciprocal Agreement and lots of other great benefits!

Are you looking for a way to use your own special talents and skills to serve the Children’s Museum and its visitors in a unique way that we haven’t listed? If you are interested in volunteering with us, but you don’t see the type of opportunity you’re looking for, please contact Craig Munro. It may not be possible for us to create a project that utilizes your special skills, but it doesn’t hurt to ask!

Our 3M Shining Star Volunteer Program is generously supported by 3M Canada.

How to Get Involved!

For more information, please contact Craig Munro at 519-434-5726 ext. 232, or volunteer@londonchildrensmuseum.ca

Youth Volunteer Application (under 18 years old) is located here.

Volunteer Application (18 + years old) is located here.

Please complete and mail, email or fax to the attention of Craig Munro.
You will be contacted for an interview shortly after.

Please note: Volunteers will now be required to provide their own police record check, valid within six-months of their start date with the Children's Museum.