“This really showed me that there are many different
jobs in a zoo.” - Zoo Keeper Aide
“The zoo gives me the experience I need for future
careers and college applications.” - Zoo Keeper Aide
”I was able to...get a taste of how a zoo worked.”
- Zoo Crew Member
“This was a wonderful experience. I learned a lot
from the counselors...I found out tons of information about the
zoo...and I also learned how to care for kids.” - Zoo Camp Aide
“I had a blast and it was a great way to make new
friends.” - Zoo Camp Aide
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The Z-TEAM Volunteer and Leadership Program for Teens
Teens: Apply now for the summer 2012 Z-TEAM program! Application deadline is February 29, 2012.
What is the Z-TEAM?
The Z-TEAM stands for Zoo Teens, Education, Animal Care, and Marketing. Our structured program will help teens explore animal-related careers while developing important lifelong professional skills. Teens will learn, grow, and have fun!
Who can apply?
To apply for the Z-TEAM, you must:
- be 13 to 17 years old by June 1, 2012
- have the desire and ability to work with people of all ages
- have an interest in animals and the environment
- be courteous and helpful to zoo guests
- be able to understand and follow instructions
- commit to being in attendance on the days you are assigned, completing training sessions, and following the program’s code of conduct
What will we do?
Z-TEAM members make a commitment to work Monday through Friday for two consecutive weeks during the summer. Teens help in three main areas:
- Zoo Camp Aide
Explore the whole zoo as you assist at our popular Summer Safari Day Camp. Hours are Monday-Friday 8:15 AM - 4:00 PM for two consecutive weeks.
- Zoo Keeper Aide
Assist keepers with daily tasks like cleaning public areas and animal holding areas. Hours are Monday-Friday 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM for two consecutive weeks. Note: You must be returning for your 3rd, 4th, or 5th year to be a Zoo Keeper Aide.
- Zoo Crew Member
Make connections with zoo guests of all ages by sharing fun activities and biofacts. Hours are Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM for two consecutive weeks.
Read a complete Position Description here.
Note: If you are a 1st or 2nd year Z-TEAM participant, we will assign a position to you. If you are a 3rd, 4th, or 5th year participant, you can mark your position preference on your application.
When would I participate?
Z-TEAM members work Mondays-Fridays for one session during the summer. Each session runs for two consecutive weeks.
2012 Z-TEAM Session Dates:
Session 1: June 11 - June 22
Session 2: June 25 - July 6
Note: Depending on your assignment, you may be required
to attend on July 4.
Session 3: July 9 - July 20
Session 4: July 23 - August 3
How to apply:
1. Read the information above to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements.
2. Talk with your family to choose the Session(s) that you are available. You will be expected to attend each day of your session Monday - Friday. You will mark your session preference on the application.
3. Fill out the online application.
4. If this is your first year in the program, you must
submit a recommendation. Print the
Recommendation Form. Give the form to a person age 18
or older who is not related to you. A teacher, coach,
employer, or family friend would be a good choice. Ask them to
complete the form and return it to the zoo
no later than February 29, 2012. Participants
returning for their 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th year do not need to
obtain a recommendation.
Note: If the Recommendation Form is not received by
the deadline, your application will be considered incomplete and
you will not be eligible for the program, so give the person
plenty of time to complete and mail the Recommendation Form to
the zoo. Forms can be mailed or hand-delivered to Z-TEAM,
3411 Sherman Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46808 or faxed to
260-427-6820.
Application Deadline is February 29, 2012. Applications and Recommendation Forms will not be accepted after this date.
Program Fee:
$58 for new participants
$46 for returning participants
Fee is due at time of training. Please do not send fee with your application. This fee helps cover the cost of curriculum materials, uniforms, and the Z-TEAM Instructor.
A limited number of scholarships are available for those demonstrating financial need. Download a Financial Aid Request Form or contact the volunteer coordinator at 260-427-6828 for information.
How will Z-TEAM volunteers be chosen?
This program is competitive. Applicants are selected based on their timely completion of application materials, program experience, and availability.
What happens next?
After March 31, 2012 we will mail you a letter stating whether you’ve been selected for the program. If selected, we’ll tell you which session and position you are assigned. 1st and 2nd year participants are assigned a position while returning 3rd, 4th, and 5th year participants are awarded their 1st or 2nd preference. In the letter, you’ll also find out about training sessions and events.
Thanks for your interest
in the Z-TEAM Volunteer and Leadership Program!