The Zoo & You Volunteer     Teen Program and Service Opportunities (ages 12 to 18) The Youth Development Department promotes positive personal, social and professional development through Teen Programs and Service Opportunities. Program participants gain a better understanding of the natural world and the role the Zoo plays in it. Currently, we are taking program applications. Deadline: May 23, 2008: ECCO (Education, Conservation and Community Opportunities) Leadership Program Zoo Crew Explorers Program What is the new ECCO Leadership Program? A free nine-month opportunity to experience the Zoo accumulating 180 volunteer service hours Participants attend two weekly workshops that focus on personal and professional leadership, animal husbandry and conservation, as well as, local and global environmental issues. Upon completion, ECCO graduates have the opportunity to continue volunteering and working with the Zoo in a variety of ways. Program begins on June 9, 2008 What is the Zoo Crew Explorers Program? A professional development program allowing youth 14-18 years of age the opportunity to gain weekly volunteer hours through a variety of zoo departments. Flexible program allows for volunteering either over the summer or throughout the year. Departments include operations, education, and animal handling for interns over 16 years of age. Group Activities include: conservation presentations, animal interpretation, and partnerships with local organizations. Summer Program begins the week of June 9th Forms for Youth Programs and Service Opportunities ECCO Leadership Program Information and Applicant Letter Zoo Crew Explorer Information and Applicant Letter Youth Programs Application Parent/Guardian Consent Form Below is a checklist of the items required for a completed application: Completed Application and Parent/Guardian Consent Form 2 Letters of Recommendation 1 Self Written Essay Your most recent Report Card- *Please note that your grades/GPA will not determine whether you get into the program. We use this information for reporting and statistical purposes only. Once the application packet is complete, send it back to the Zoo by mail or by drop it off at the Lowry Park Zoo ticket booth. Please make sure you mark the envelope: "LPZ Teen Programs." Once received, we will contact you to set up an interview. If you need additional information, please email the Youth Programs Coordinator or contact her via phone at (813) 935-8552 ext. 479.