Volunteer Inclusion Program Guide

This manual outlines Woodland Park Zoo’s intentional efforts to create an inclusive and accessible volunteer program through the development of the Volunteer Inclusion Program (VIP). It highlights strategies for recruiting, training, and supporting volunteers with disabilities, including practical tools, accessibility checklists, inclusive event planning, and stories from volunteers themselves. The document serves as both a roadmap and a reflection on lessons learned, offering guidance for other cultural institutions aiming to embed accessibility and inclusion into their volunteer engagement practices. The Volunteer Inclusion Program was developed in response to a clear need for more inclusive volunteer opportunities for individuals with disabilities, who are significantly underrepresented in traditional programs. Supported by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the program was designed to remove systemic barriers and build a sustainable, community-informed model for inclusion. Grounded in Woodland Park Zoo’s commitment to diversity, equity, access, and inclusion (DEAI), this work reflects our belief that all individuals should have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to conservation and community engagement.