“The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is currently recruiting volunteers for its fall 2008 docent training program which begins on Monday, October 20. The intensive one-week training course prepares participants to lead group tours, interpret the Museum’s exhibits, and assist at special events.

Docents provide invaluable support to the Museum in its mission to promote a deeper understanding of the Chesapeake Bay region and its history. Docent duties include guiding Museum visitors and providing a memorable and positive visit; staffing individual exhibitions and leading demonstrations, classes, and special events as needed; attending training sessions and monthly meetings; and promoting the Museum and its mission to others.

Each class features an important topic relevant to the Museum’s collection and instruction on how to successfully work with groups in order to provide an interesting, educational and fulfilling experience for the visitor. The session topics range from learning about the Museum’s exhibits and collections to developing tour group management techniques.

“”We are looking for volunteers who enjoy interacting with people and have a curiosity about the Chesapeake Bay,”” explains CBMM Director of Education, Robert Forloney. “”No experience is required; volunteers need not have an intense knowledge of the Bay or maritime activities beforehand, but merely have a desire to learn and the time to commit to at least two-shifts each month.”” Forloney explains that the Museum “”would benefit greatly from individuals who are able to volunteer on weekends or from those who enjoy working with children.””

In addition to the free training that the docents receive, they also get a discount in the Museum Store, have access to the campus library, attend on-going training opportunities, get invitations to participate in volunteer field trips and other social functions and are recognized at an annual volunteer awards reception. Many docents have expressed that volunteering for the Museum is one of their most gratifying experiences; that engaging visitors from across the country and around the world is inspiring and fulfilling work and that volunteering for CBMM is a great way to meet others and connect with those who share an interest in the Chesapeake Bay.

For information about docent training or other volunteer opportunities at the Museum, contact Volunteer Administrator Melissa Spielman at 410-745-2916 ext. 252 or email mspielman@cbmm.org. Additional information about the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum can be found at their website, www.cbmm.org.”