Thanks for your interest in volunteering at the NEW Zoo! Our current Special Event for which we are recruiting volunteers is North Shore Bank Zoo Boo 2025.

Here’s the FAQ regarding this event:

What does the Zoo need volunteers for?

Lots of things, including help with supervising trick-or-treat stations, games and activities, handing out prizes, lighting candles in pumpkins, serving as Ghouls in our Haunted Zoo Zone, and more.

Who can volunteer?

Just about anyone! Kids must be at least 8 years old to volunteer with an adult or other authorized chaperone. Kids can volunteer without a chaperone starting at the age of 15. (Adults must sign a waiver authorizing all children to volunteer.) Volunteers should be at least 15 years of age to assist in the Haunted Zoo Zone.

What sort of paperwork is required?

All event volunteers – both minors and adults! – need to have a completed Event Volunteer Waiver signed by a guardian. These forms must be brought to the Zoo and turned in upon check-in . The zoo will have blank copies available in case you forget a form, or in case you do not have access to a printer.

When does the Zoo need help?

On the following Fridays & Saturdays in October 2025: October 10th, 11th, 17th, 18th, 24th, and 25th.  Volunteers must commit to be here for a full Volunteer Shift, and different shifts are available depending on the opportunity.

Do I need to dress up or wear a costume?

Costumes are OPTIONAL for all volunteers UNLESS you are working the Haunted Zoo Zone OR working as a Swamp Monster (where costumes  are required as described in the volunteer position details). We do encourage everyone working in all other areas to wear a costume (preferably not a scary one!) to get into the Halloween spirit and have fun with guests.

Whether you wear a costume or not, please note that you should dress for the weather – Zoo Boo takes place outdoors, even in the rain – so keep that in mind as you dress. The event goes on RAIN OR SHINE; you are welcome to bring umbrellas and rain gear when the weather calls for them. Consider having layers, as it can be quite cool once the sun goes down!

What do I get for volunteering?

Several things! For starters: you get to have a lot of fun! Many of our volunteers tell us their favorite part of the event is seeing all the children having fun – and we have to agree, it’s an awesome experience to see zoo visitors having a good time, and knowing that you are a part of it. Secondly, all volunteers who request it will be given a proof-of-service, to turn in for verification of your service hours, whether you need the proof for school, church, or other things like job applications. Whatever your reason, you’ll have a signed form upon request. Finally,  volunteer will also receive a free beverage and a snack item, like a bag or pretzels or popcorn, plus a FREE ticket to visit the NEW Zoo or enjoy the Canopy Tour anytime in the next year.  These “Volunteer Vouchers” will be valid for regular zoo admission to the zoo on any day, but not for other special events that require event tickets (like Zoo Boo and EggStravaganZoo).  Each volunteer (adults and children) will receive one Volunteer Voucher per day of assisting at the event.

How do I know what to do, where to go, what to expect when I get there?

When you register for a volunteer shift, you will get an automatic email that will have a link to a website that contains detailed instructions about where to go and what to expect when volunteering. About two days before your volunteer shift(s), you will receive another email reminder with a link to the same page, which will be updated with a PDF version of the Volunteer Schedule. Please note that volunteer assignments may be changed by the Volunteer Coordinator in the case of not enough volunteer coverage, or due to no-shows on the day of the event. The Volunteer Coordinator strives to keep volunteers at your original registered positions, but we appreciate your understanding and willingness to be flexible, in order to help us hold a successful event.

Are there other ways I can help out for this event?

Yes! Consider joining our public Pumpkin Carving Event on Wednesday October 8th! Learn more and RSVP on our website.

How do I sign up?

Click this link and be sure to follow all instructions and complete the form to sign-up online here: View Sign-Ups
Be sure to toggle between different tabs for all six dates when you view the sign-up page! If you are on a mobile device, you can select the date you wish to view by using the drop-down menu at the top of the page (see examples below).

Mobile Device Example:

Desktop View Example:

You can also join us for the public Pumpkin Carving Event on Wednesday, October 8th! Learn more about that event and register to attend here: Pumpkin Carving link coming soon

Other questions?

Email the Volunteer Coordinator OR send a private message to our Facebook page (facebook.com/newzoogb)!