Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum Volunteer Training Begins in March -

Photo: The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is offering new volunteer training this March to provide the basic information for becoming a museum interpreter, like those pictured here. — The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum is offering new volunteer training this March to provide the basic information for becoming a museum interpreter, like those pictured here. – Contributed Photo

ST MICHAELS, MD – The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, Md. is offering free training for new and existing volunteers throughout March and April, with advanced registration needed.

Docent training prepares volunteers to work with the public as interpreters, providing the content and skills necessary to lead group tours with adults and children. Anyone who enjoys interacting with people, has a curiosity about the Chesapeake Bay, is comfortable and excited about public speaking, and is interested in promoting the Bay’s cultural heritage is encouraged to participate.

Five mandatory general content and background training sessions will be held from 10am–12:30pm Thursday, March 7, and Tuesdays and Thursdays, March 12 & 14, and 19 & 21, 2019. At least one session of specialized guided tour training, scheduled for the following Tuesdays and Thursdays in March and April, is also required. This training program, led by CBMM’s Education team, covers topics ranging from CBMM exhibits and collections to tour group management techniques.

The session scheduled for Thursday, March 7, will also serve as a one-day training for those interested in becoming a CBMM Greeter. This training session will include background information on CBMM’s history, operations, and exhibitions, and will provide logistical techniques for welcoming guests to campus. This shorter training may be right for those who enjoy meeting new people and being a friendly face, but who are interested in a smaller commitment or are physically unable to lead walking tours.

CBMM docents and other volunteers provide invaluable support to CBMM in its mission to preserve and explore the history, environment, and people of the Chesapeake Bay. Duties can include greeting or guiding museum visitors and providing a memorable and positive visit, staffing individual exhibitions and leading demonstrations, classes, and special events as needed, and promoting the museum and its mission to others.

“Many of our volunteers say that being a museum docent is one of their most gratifying experiences,” said CBMM’s Director of Education Jill Ferris. “We find that active adults enjoy working with us and becoming part of our volunteer corps just as much as they enjoy working with the students and other guests we serve.”

Registration is required by contacting CBMM Volunteer & Education Programs Manager Allison Speight at aspeight@cbmm.org or 410-745-4941.

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~ Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum