ARCS Youth Volunteer and Internship Programs

ARCS YOUNG ADULT & HIGH SCHOOL VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS (ages 11 to 17)

Young adults are the next generation of conservation leaders. That’s why we offer experiences designed to connect them with aquatic science, expand their understanding of conservation, and inspire them to take action for aquatic fisheries and their habitats. We offer science education that goes beyond the book into the lakes and rivers that include hands-on activities to build knowledge of aquatic science and help foster personal connections to natural resources. Students interested in exploring conservation and eager to make a difference in their communities are encouraged to apply for one of our programs.

ARCS’ Volunteer Programs provide students with a dynamic, hands-on fisheries science experience that complements their traditional academic studies. These programs are for students who are excited about biology, are interested in aquatic conservation, and are ready to participate in a structured research project. Volunteers assist with real research projects and the delivery of our environmental science education programs to younger students. Training is provided.

Volunteer Programs for 2023 are now closed.

Please check back in the spring of 2024 for updated volunteer opportunities.

If you have any questions, please email us at amy@aquaticresearch.org

PROGRAMS

All participants will receive a t-shirt, educational handouts, a survey to complete upon completion of the program, and a Certificate of Participation.

Aquatic Education Aide, age 11+: Volunteers will participate and assist with education and outreach programs to children and special events through this experience-based learning program. Average day is from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. or 12:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.

Field Sampling Techniques (field work), age 16+: Volunteers will participate in field studies using different gears and methods to collect, measure, weigh, and tag fish in our local waters and identify and document them during this experienced-based learning program. Students will be on a research boat. Average field day is from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., this is dependent on how many fish are caught, the days could be shorter or longer.

Projects or Special Events, age 11+: If your schedule doesn’t allow for a term commitment but you are interested in volunteering, there are several ways to be involved. We have many opportunities for students who are vital to making our organization and programs successful. There is no deadline to submit an application.

Requested requirements:

Age at least 11 years old for the Aquatic Education Program;
Age at least 16 years old for the Field Sampling Techniques Program;
Ability to Swim;
Ability to lift 25 pounds; and
Must have own transportation to and from meeting locations. ARCS crew will wait for the volunteer to arrive for 15 minutes, if they do not arrive and do not call with an estimated time of arrival, ARCS staff will leave for the activity.

Volunteers will be selected based on application. Participants will get wet and will get very dirty. PLEASE NOTE, if a volunteer is scheduled for a shift and does not show up and does not call in before scheduled shift they may be terminated from the program.

Who is eligible: Students who are enthusiastic, professional and hard-working.
Before you apply: We ask you to carefully discuss with your family your ability to make a time commitment to ARCS and your access to consistent transportation.

Students who successfully complete the High School Volunteer Program can apply to the Alumni Program, another program that allows them to participate in a scientific project alongside ARCS research staff without submitting an application.

How do I Become an ARCS Volunteer? You can join our volunteer team in 5 easy steps:

1. Email amy@aquaticresearch.org to request an application packet;

2. Complete and sign the application packet;

3. Volunteer’s parent/guardian must also sign the application if under 18 years old;

4. Email the Application to amy@aquaticresearch.org or mail to:

Amy Waters, ARCS, 2915 Payne Avenue, Little Canada, MN 55117; and

5. Wait to hear from us, after we receive and review your application an ARCS staff member will contact you to discuss the opportunity and answer any questions you may have.

NOTE: Positions fill quickly and not all applicants may be accepted into the program of their choice.

What does the Application packet include?

Volunteer & Parent Contact Information.
An explanation of why you want to volunteer with ARCS.

If you have any questions about the application or programs please contact Amy Waters at amy@aquaticresearch.org or by phone at 651-330-0330.

We hope to receive your application soon!

VOLUNTEER FAQs:

What are the benefits to volunteer? Free training, establish a professional reference, valuable experience, and invitations to special events.

Why become an ARCS Volunteer? People volunteer for different reasons such as concern for the environment, wanting to help in your community, likes animals, make new friends, and gain knowledge and experience.

What is the time commitment? Usually 1 to 2 days a week for 3 to 4 months, the commitment requirement is determined by the volunteer opportunity that you choose. Some opportunities require a summer only commitment while some are a day-to-day need working with your availability. Start and end dates can be negotiated.

Do I need training to volunteer? No prior training is required, training is provided. Training is discussed with ARCS outreach staff upon receipt of your application.

Are any of your volunteers paid? No, all ARCS volunteers are unpaid.

Can I apply for more than one volunteer position? Yes.

Is housing or transportation provided? No.

When are Applications due? Applications are due by 9:00 pm CST the date specified in the posted information. Some positions indicate ‘Open Until Filled’. If we do not receive enough qualified applications we will continue to accept applications until all positions are filled.

I emailed my complete application before the deadline, what’s next? You will receive confirmation by email upon receipt of your application. After the deadline date all applications will be forwarded to staff for review. All applicants will be contacted whether they are a candidate or are not accepted for consideration.

Where do I make further inquiries? You can contact Amy Waters at amy@aquaticresearch.org or by phone at 651-330-0330.