Volunteer at Historic Sotterley

Historic Sotterley, Inc. is a small nonprofit organization with little staff. We could not do half of what we accomplish without the help of our friends, family, and community. Our volunteers support the Museum throughout the year, in a variety of roles. An important component of any strong charity like Historic Sotterley is its volunteers. They provide the time and talent that allow Historic Sotterley to provide a memorable experience on site.

 

Volunteers share their knowledge and enthusiasm by planting seeds for our Growing for Good program, tending our gardens, delivering informative tours, manning our visitor center and supporting behind-the-scenes activities in almost every department. And that's just the start. Every volunteer offers invaluable support to the Museum, and they get something back from it too in the satisfaction of making an impact in what they believe in.

Our main volunteer needs are below. Click each position to expand it and read a description of what it entails.

Museum Interpreter/Tour Guide

We are looking for great storytellers who love history and can convey Sotterley's story in a dynamic, personable, and understandable way.  Museum Interpreters/Tour Guides may host tours during various Sotterley events, in addition to regular in-season tours. No experience necessary; training provided.
 
Museum Interpreters/Tour Guides teach visitors of all ages, guiding them through the Manor House (when conditions permit) and on the grounds, presenting the approved tours. Museum Interpreters/Tour Guides work regular site tours and may also be called to assist with special tour groups.
 
Description of Duties: 

  • Provide interactive tours to the general public and for group tours
  • Provide interpretation of over 3 centuries of history
  • Lead tours of the 1st floor of the manor house, slave dwelling, and exhibits
  • Engage with all visitors including descendants

 
Volunteer Qualifications: 

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Good communication skills
  • People oriented
  • An interest in history
  • Ability to walk or stand over various terrains (grass, gravel, brick, hills, etc...)
  • Must be able to tolerate being outdoors or in historical structures for extended periods of time
  • Background checks performed
Visitor Center Assistant

The Visitor Center is the first stop for visitors when visiting the site. No experience necessary; training provided. Will work with your schedule.
 
The Museum Store volunteer is the first point of contact the public has with Historic Sotterley. You will welcome visitors, collect tour fees, ring up items sold in the Museum Store along with giving useful information about the tour, grounds, and exhibits. Be knowledgeable and informed about programs or events onsite and our membership benefits to encourage visitors to become members.
 
Some of the other duties include restocking of merchandise, keeping the Visitor Center tidy and presentable inside and out. Coordinates guided tours with the docent when visitors come for tours.
 
Volunteer Qualifications: 

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Good communication skills
  • People oriented
  • An interest in history
  • Background checks performed
Garden Guild Volunteer

The purpose of the Garden Guild is to maintain and physically interpret the gardens at Historic Sotterley. Garden Guild volunteers help maintain the beautiful Colonial Revival Garden and more! Help with Garden Guild fundraisers.  No experience necessary; on-site training.
 
We perform all manner of garden work - weeding, planting, feeding, mulching, raking, etc. Additionally, there is a need for garden research, record keeping, planning and clerical chores.
 
Dress appropriately for gardening. Tools and gloves are available for use: however, you are welcome to bring your own if you desire. Seasons of year and weather control our work.
 
Garden Guild volunteers meet every Wednesday and Saturday morning, 9:00-12:00, weather permitting. Attend, as your schedule allows (weekly, biweekly, monthly). Flexible and will work with your schedule.
 
Great opportunity for meeting Master Gardner requirements.
 
Volunteer Qualifications: 

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Good communication skills
  • People oriented
  • An interest in history
Special Events

Assist with our multiple tasks or positions to execute an event or project. Ranging from the helping hands of labor with our agricultural Growing for Good program to Sotterley fundraising events. Have a special talent you would like to offer, please contact us and we will put it to use.
 
Historic Sotterley, Inc. is a small nonprofit organization with little staff. We could not do half of what we accomplish without the help of our friends, family, and community.
 
We offer a lot of our group volunteer events through Sign-Up Genius. A platform you can just sign up for a specific task to help with when convenient for you. If you would like more information, please contact officemanager@sotterley.org.
 
If you would like more information or for us to add you to the list for Sign Up Genius, please send your name and email address to officemanager@sotterley.org. Please add your phone number if you would like someone to reach and discuss.

In addition to the volunteer positions above, we are also looking for help with:

  • Education Programs
  • Organization/Cleaning
  • Office Support
  • Marketing Assistance
  • Grounds and Maintenance
  • Growing for Good/Farming
  • Other special skills you may have

Sign up today to join our wonderful team of volunteers! 

Volunteer Interest Form