VOLUNTEER WITH US
The National Great Rivers Museum Needs You
As a part of our volunteer program, you will play an essential role in encouraging visitors to learn and understand the importance of the Mississippi River and Melvin Price Locks and Dam. We rely on our volunteers to partake in daily operations of the museum which include several different forms of opportunity. From facilitating educational programs to specific maintenance projects there is a chance for every individual to excel.
Become a Volunteer with the National Great Rivers Museum
We value your interest in volunteering at our wonderful, riverfront facility. Please review the requirements for our volunteer program and fill out the volunteer interest form below. Our volunteer coordinator will contact you as soon as possible. We look forward to working with you!
If you have questions about the program, contact our volunteer coordinator by calling 618-462-6979.
Requirements to Volunteer
Must be at least 16 years of age or over
Must enjoy conversing and working with the public
Must possess good, verbal communication skills
Must pass a background check at no charge to you
Must complete official volunteer forms required by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Meeting of the Rivers Foundation
Empowering Our Next Generation
The National Great Rivers Museum understands the importance of introducing today’s youth to life experiences and interactions. If you are/or know an individual currently attending high school or college seeking opportunities to earn volunteer hours let us assist. Volunteering with us will encourage growth in social interactions and introduce individuals to workplace routine and behavior.
Volunteer Recognition
We are committed to acknowledging every single one of our volunteers. Over the years, we have been able to give members of our volunteer program annual field trips, awards, and lifelong memories.
Our volunteer coordinators work diligently to provide the best experiences available to individuals of the program. To name one example, volunteers have been able to board and overnight MV Mississippi, the largest towboat in our region, each time the vessel has passed through Melvin Price Locks and Dam.
We also provide volunteers who have served 250 hours or more a free America the Beautiful pass. This pass allows the volunteer and three additional individuals free entry into all national parks as well as several other federal recreation locations.
Areas of Volunteer Interest
Welcome Desk
Answering common visitor questions, operating the phone, utilizing a cash register.
Tour Guide
Take visitors on tours of Melvin Price Locks and Dam. Educate groups on the history and engineering of the structure.
Program Assistant
Join U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park rangers in conducting educational programs both at the museum and at offsite locations.
Special Event Assistant
Work one or many of the scheduled, public events the museum hosts.
Media Creation
Lend your skills in flyer design and social media management to help us get updates, special events, and other content out to the public.
When available, groups of interested volunteers can participate in special projects. These jobs have entailed various opportunities including trail maintenance, construction of recreational structures, and litter clean up. Some projects include working with our partners such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Mississippi River Water Trail Association, and the Audubon Center at Riverlands.