Sedgwick County Zoo would like to recognize Tom Beauchesne and Micaela Atkinson with the 2009 Volunteer of the Year award. “We love our volunteers,” said Volunteer Director Bridget Landers. “I’m impressed by their dedication and enthusiasm to work together to make the Zoo the best it can be.”

Tom Beauchesne, Sedgwick County Zoo 2009 Adult Volunteer of the Year, is always willing to help out when needed for any task asked of him. He is always here to help out on his scheduled days and willing to come in on extra days if needed. Tom gives great attention to detail in everything he does, whether preparing animal diets or cleaning the floors. He has a wonderful attitude and always has a smile on his face, making him a joy to be around. Tom gave 1,012 hours of his time to the Zoo in 2009. He has volunteered at the Zoo since 1996 in the Australian & South American Animal Areas, Graphics, Special Events and Commissary departments.

Micaela Atkinson, Sedgwick County Zoo 2009 Youth Volunteer of the Year, has volunteered at the Zoo since 2007. She is a busy student yet always makes time for the Zoo. In 2009 Micaela gave 810 hours of her time to the Zoo. She is willing to do whatever is asked of her and has great customer service skills. Micaela always finds joy in any task, making her fun to work with. She volunteers most of her time in the African Animal Areas, Special Events and Education departments.

In 2009 Sedgwick County Zoo had the privilege of working with a total of 1,049 volunteers who donated 45,481 hours. “It wasn’t easy picking just two award winners for 2009,” said Landers. Volunteers help the Zoo by giving their time which in turn saves the Zoo money. The cumulative hours donated by the Sedgwick County Zoo volunteers in 2009 were equal to 21 fulltime employees. Thanks to all of you for what you do to help make the Zoo the No. 1 outdoor family tourist attraction in Kansas.
 

Barb Hoppins a 30-year Zoo volunteer presented Mark C. Reed, Executive Director at Sedgwick County Zoo with a check during the Volunteer Appreciation Reception at the Zoo on April 16, 2009. The check represents the dollars saved due to work of many volunteers. In 2008 Sedgwick County Zoo volunteers graciously gave more than 36,700 hours which equals approximately $367,819.30.

“Words cannot express how thankful we are for our volunteers” said Reed, “without them we wouldn’t be able to provide the quality guest experience that many have come to expect.”

Barb Hoppins is one of more than 870 volunteers who donate time at the Zoo on a regular basis. Barb has volunteered in almost every area of the Zoo including Education, Chimpanzoo and Special Events.
 

Become a Zoo ambassador! Do you love animals? Do you want to share your passion with others? Become part of the Sedgwick County Zoo Docent Program. Docents are trained education volunteers who help with all aspects of Zoo education. As a docent you will work with education animals, assist with a variety of education activities and meet others who share your interests.

To find out more about this exciting program, please contact the Education Department at 266-8213 and plan to join us at one of the following Docent Volunteer Orientations (held in the Cargill Learning Center).

Sep 21 Tue: 2:00 p.m.
Sep 22 Wed: 5:00 p.m.