Those who love the outdoors and helping others discover nature can learn how to volunteer at Runge Nature Center in Jefferson City during an open house Jan. 13.
The event will be 6-8 p.m., when interested individuals will have the opportunity to meet current volunteers and learn more about the overall program.
Potential volunteers will interview for open positions soon after the open house. Volunteers are selected based on the current needs of the center. Once selected, volunteers will be required to attend a 20-hour training program during the course of seven weeks. Upon graduation from the training course, volunteers are required to work a minimum of 10 hours each month. Youth volunteers (age 14-18) will need to work a minimum of five hours each month.
Volunteers at Runge are involved in many day-to-day activities. Various duties include providing information to the public on the forest, fish and wildlife resources of Missouri; presenting interpretive programs to the public; organizing and staffing exhibits; greeting the public; helping to implement special events; and assisting with animal care.
The center is located on Missouri 179, approximately a half-mile north of U.S. 50. Building hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Thursdays. The building is closed on Sundays and Mondays. The outdoor trails are open 6 a.m.-9 p.m. daily.
For more information, call 573-526-5544, or visit mdc.mo.gov/runge.