Become a Volunteer
Volunteering at The Huntington is a great way to learn about plants and culture, meet people with similar interests, and share your knowledge and enthusiasm with visitors! Volunteers are a vital and valued resource at The Huntington.
- Join a dedicated community–1,200 strong!–ages 14 to 80+
- You don't need an art degree, green thumb, or a background in history
- Opportunities available year-round, weekdays and weekends, in a variety of areas
- Exclusive benefits including discounts, early entrance, and invitations to special events
Opportunities
- Information volunteers - provide information to visitors at various locations including admissions, orientation gallery, library, art galleries, and the gardens
- Garden volunteers - provide vital support to the botanical staff dead-heading, weeding, re-potting, and tending the many gardens
- Docent volunteers - lead public and school tours of the library, art, and botanical collections
- Office volunteers - assist staff with administrative support and special projects
Requirements
Requirements vary for different volunteer opportunities.
- Information, Garden, and Office volunteers generally require a minimum of 8 hours per month for six months. Orientation and training is provided.
- Docent volunteers require a minimum of 8 hours per month for 2 years, followed by mandatory participation in a series of Master Class training sessions. Docent volunteers act as ambassadors for The Huntington, with a longer-term committment.
Apply
Complete an application:
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, contact volunteerprograms@huntington.org or call 626-405-3429.
What to Expect
- Applications are accepted year-round. Please note, we receive a high volume of applications and are not always able to place every applicant.
- After submitting your application, you will be contacted by email within 4-6 weeks and invited to attend an interview (individual interview for adult volunteers; group interviews for youths) to discuss your time commitment, areas of interest, and current opportunities.
- Volunteers are accepted based on their availability and potential for personal growth and positive impact. Volunteers must be able to make at least one 4-month term commitment and adhere to the attendance policy.
- After your interview, if a volunteer opportunity is available, you will be invited to attend the New Volunteer Welcome & Orientation, meet other volunteers, and learn more about your individual assignment.