Volunteen Program FAQ

How old do I have to be to apply?
The Volunteen Program requires applicants to be at least 14 years old by May 31, 2026, in order to qualify for the program.

Is there a fee to participate in the program?
No, there is no cost required to be a Volunteen. Applicants should consider external costs like food and transportation prior to applying. For lunches during the program, teens have the option of bringing their own or going next door to Subway to purchase lunch.

Why would someone not be accepted into the Volunteen Program?
While we would love to accept all applicants into the Volunteen Program, there are a few reasons why we would decline on an applicant for our program:
-The individual has limited availability and will be unable to commit to volunteering one day a week during the eight-week program.
-The individual is uninterested or uncomfortable talking to guests. We understand that many teens are nervous during their interview, however, we are looking for individuals who put forth an effort to make eye contact, smile, show excitement about the program, and be genuinely interested in learning.
-We get the impression that an individual is only here for a class credit or for their parents and they are not interested in being at Kentucky Science Center. We are looking for volunteers who genuinely want to be a part of the program and are interested in volunteering.

I have a conflict during the scheduled orientation/training session, can I make up training at a different time?
Unfortunately, if you are unable to attend the orientation on Sunday May 31st, 2026, then you will not be able to participate in the Summer Volunteen Program this year.

What days/hours will I work?
Volunteens will be dedicated to working one day per week Monday – Friday (same day each week), from 10AM-3PM. You will have a 30-minute lunch break.

What will I be doing?

• Visitor Experience (VE) – Be a part of a team of brilliant scientists at Kentucky Science Center! Engage with guests and provide hands-on opportunities to Do Science. Volunteens will learn how to facilitate activities and learn how to encourage all guests to participate in science activities, interact with Science Center exhibits, and discover that science is all around us!
  • Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
    • Assisting with walk-up activities.
    • Engaging guests in the exhibits experience through invitation, enhancement, and activity extension.
    • Restaging exhibits for visitors

OR

• School’s Out Science Camp – Do you have a passion for helping train the next generation of scientists? Grab your gloves and goggles as you help Do Science in the classroom. Learn the fundamentals of classroom management as you gain experience with children in grades Pre-K-5th grade. Volunteens will collaborate with our seasonal team of teachers and counselors on camp curriculum and share their love for learning and Doing Science.
  • Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
    • Engaging with campers in the classroom and in exhibits with the support of seasonal staff members.
    • Assisting teachers and counselors in the classroom with activities.
    • Set/clean up classrooms and lunchrooms.