Frederic Remington Art Museum's Volunteer Docent Program:
Frederic Remington Art Museum - Volunteer Docent Program
We are excited to announce the revitalization of our Volunteer Docent Program! With new updates, enhanced opportunities, and expanded educational offerings, the program promises to offer an enriching experience for both new and current volunteers.
What's New?
- Public Educational Programming by Experts: All educational content will now be provided by trained museum staff and experts, ensuring the highest quality of learning and adherence to our DEIA values.
- Expanded Access to Learning: All programs will be recorded and made available on YouTube, so you can learn at your convenience. Docent-only training sessions will remain available in private, secure spaces.
- Evening and weekend sessions: To make our program more accessible to everyone, training sessions will be offered in the evening and/or on weekends to accommodate those who work or are in school.
- Monthly Docent Training Sessions: These sessions are at the heart of your learning experience and growth as a docent. Each session offers an in-depth exploration of the artwork and objects within the Museum, with a special focus on art education practices and ways of engaging our audience. Training sessions take place on the first Sunday of every month, 2-4 pm.
- Quarterly Meet-ups and Potluck: Everyone is welcome! You don't need to be a docent to join in on the fun! If you're curious about our program, this is your opportunity to get to know us before completing the application and interview. These meet-ups are a time for us to gather, connect, share ideas, build community, talk about art, and enjoy some great food!
- Growth Plan: We are committed to expanding the Docent Program! Our strategy includes advertising in public media, social media campaigns, and outreach to community service groups, SOAR, major employers, and more. We also encourage all current volunteers and board members to spread the word.
- Community Outreach Opportunities: Work with the Education Manager, Julie Pratt, to develop community outreach programs such as visiting local senior groups, schools, and clubs to bring the Remington Museum to the public!
Docent Expectations:
- All prospective docents must complete an application and an informal interview.
- Training & Education: All docents will attend a full-day orientation and two continued education classes each year. Docents must attend 10 of the 12 monthly training sessions. These occur on the first Sunday of every month from 2-4 pm. You’ll also have access to additional training opportunities through our hybrid learning model.
- Volunteer Hours: Docents are required to contribute 30-50 volunteer hours per year. These hours include guiding tours, attending seminars, monthly meetings, orientation, and continuing education. (The number of commitment hours can be adjusted to fit your particular needs)
- Regular Volunteer Opportunities: Docents will have opportunities to lead monthly or weekly tours, participate in community outreach, assist with gallery attendance, and more.
- Must be at least 16 years of age: That's right! We have opportunities for everyone, even if you are in high school or college! Educational and training programs will be held in the evening or over the weekend to accommodate those who go to school.
- One-year commitment: All docents sign up for a one-year commitment.
- Museum Membership: All docents must become members or maintain a current membership to the Frederic Remington Art Museum.
