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DOCENT PROGRAM:
Docent Program at AVG: Are you interested in being part of the next graduating class of AVG Docents? We are accepting applications now for the Program. New class starting January 11th at 3:00 pm. To sign up, write to bmorse@altavistagardens.org
Four Week Program: Commencing with an orientation class. Classes will continue for the following three Saturdays at 1:00 pm. Program Director Bryan Morse will coordinate a team of educators and garden experts
Garden Docent Program Description
Goal of the Position: Provide a pleasurable and educational experience for visitors at Alta Vista Gardens by sharing the history of gardens, architectural information, artistic information and horticultural information.
Responsibilities: Docents interact with visitors in a professional, cordial, and respectful manner. Docents will train for a specific garden area of their choice with the opportunity to expand interpretation responsibilities across the entire Garden. Specifically, docents are expected to be able to:
- Answer visitor questions
- Offer information about the history of Alta Vista Gardens
- Identify architectural garden elements, artistic pieces and design features
- Assist visitors in identifying plant material
- Promote respect for the Gardens so as to minimize visitor damage to plants and garden structures
- Provide guided tours as docent interest and knowledge increase
- As volunteers gain experience, help train future docents
- Join garden crews and help maintain the garden beds (optional)
Qualifications:
- Docents must be members of Alta Vista Gardens
- A basic understanding of horticulture and botany, and/or a willingness to increase knowledge
- General knowledge of AVG and an enthusiasm for horticulture and gardening
- Ability to comfortably engage visitors in their surroundings
- A pleasant and out-going personality
- Ability to spend up to 2 hours standing and walking in the gardens
Dress:
Docents should dress appropriately for the weather expected during the 90 minute-plus outdoor shift; attire should be casual yet appropriate for work with the public. Garden Docents will be given some form of I.D. (name tag or volunteer vest) to identify you as a Garden Docent. Volunteer t-shirts are available for purchase.
Orientation/Training:
- Training will be offered on an as-needed basis.
Time Commitment:
Scheduling is flexible. Docents are asked to be available at least two 90 minute sessions per month. Shifts are encouraged for Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, between 10am to 2pm and Saturdays, 8am to close; also as-needed to coincide with special events. Individuals may also come in whenever time allows or convenient.
Staff Contacts: Bryan Morse (760)505-7900 bmorse@altavistagardens.org
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