ZooTeens
Are you already a ZooTeen?
Why Join ZooTeens?
Joining ZooTeens offers a unique opportunity share your passion for wildlife conservation and gain valuable life and job readiness skills while volunteering in fun and engaging environment.
The ZooTeen Program is a 4-year program, with
each year building on the previous year.
Whether you do one year or all four, the ZooTeen program offers opportunities to explore zoology, conservation, guest services, public speaking, and career development.
Applications are currently closed. Check back in the Fall!
View Requirements
Make a Difference
Develop Your Leadership Skills
Unlock Scholarship Opportunities
Receive Career Guidance
Have Fun
Get Hands On
ZooTeens Spotlight
Adysin
“The knowledge The Living Desert has given me over my time here has helped me immensely with my education and career plan.”
Kara
“Being a ZooTeen has been life changing! I have learned so much while meeting amazing people and animals. The Living Desert is one of my favorite places in the world and I am so lucky to volunteer here.”
Destiny
The Living Desert Scholarship Fund
Awarded to students in the Coachella Valley, The Living Desert Scholarship Fund gives annually to students pursuing natural science careers or conservation related fields.
The Scholarship is renewable for up to four years for students maintaining good academic standing in conservation related majors. The award, typically between $2,000 to $5,000 per year, supports expenses like tuition, books, and other college-related costs.
ZooTeens Requirements
Qualifications
- Must be 14 to 18 years of age at the start of the program
- Enjoy people and interacting with others
- Be willing and able to represent The Living Desert in a friendly and professional manner
Requirements
- Complete and submit the ZooTeen Application
- Attend a ZooTeen orientation session
- Commit to a full year of service
- Commit to two shifts of volunteering service per month
- Participate in special events throughout the year
- Attend monthly meetings and answer a monthly essay question
ZooTeens Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to become a ZooTeen?
Applications are currently closed. Check back in the Fall for the next enrollment period.
What are the age requirements for ZooTeens?
The ZooTeen program is open to volunteers who are 14 to 18 years of age at the start of the program.
Do I need any prior experience to join ZooTeens?
No prior experience is necessary! We’re looking for individuals who are passionate about wildlife conservation and eager to learn.
How often do ZooTeens volunteer?
What kind of activities are ZooTeen involved in and what do they learn?
As a ZooTeen, you’ll have the opportunity to gain valuable life and job readiness skills while volunteering in a fun and collaborative environment. ZooTeens receive training in public speaking and guest services, as well as area-specific training in our guest interactions areas such as the Petting Kraal, Discovery Center, G-Scale Model Train Display, and more!
“The ZooTeen program has taught my daughter punctuality, patience, prudence, teamwork, and team building, and made her step out of her comfort zone by talking to people from around the world on a regular basis. Most importantly, it cemented her passion for pursuing a career in zoology and conservation. I can’t say enough about the wonderful people she works with and how she really enjoys going to volunteer. Working hands-on with animals is a dream come true for her. We love the ZooTeen program, and if asked if we would ever do it again, the answer is YES, 100x over.”
– Joann, ZooTeen mom since 2021