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Roger Robbins
North Carolina Zoo

What he does: Roger Robbins gives lots of time to the North Carolina Zoo.

He volunteers in many areas, including streamside, KidZone, Watani Grasslands Reserve, Cypress Swamp and for special events. He also conducts guided tours, leads education classes for Zoo Society members and helps out behind the scenes with maintenance work, such as cleaning, painting and paperwork.

He is just as happy talking with visitors as he is making plaster footprints for programs. He is dependable, one of the first people to volunteer when a need arises.

Robbins is a teacher by profession, so volunteering as an exhibit interpreter and speaking with groups, big and small, comes naturally. He connects with visitors of all ages and backgrounds, and makes learning fun. Robbins is informative yet creative in his approach using biofacts, games and stories to engage visitors in unique learning opportunities.

He can take a complex subject and break it down so that anyone can understand the information he is sharing. He is also good with young visitors, encouraging them to get outside in their own backyards and discover the wonder just beyond their back door.

Robbins came to the zoo in late 2006, and has already served more than 1,000 hours. He received the President’s Volunteer Service Award, Silver Level in 2007 and was named the 2008 Volunteer of the Year.

What he tells others: “It’s very satisfying to know that I can help so many people learn new things about the animals and the zoo itself. It’s great to know that I’ve helped them enjoy their visit.”

If you’re interested in volunteering at the North Carolina Zoo, contact Toy Jarrett at 879-7712 or toy.jarrett@nczoo.org.

This week’s opportunity

Guilford County Animal Shelter needs temporary foster parents to provide a temporary home (one to 10 weeks) for kittens and puppies too young to be adopted, injured animals, or mothers nursing young. Requires an interview with the agency. Contact Randy Mayo at 297-5020.

LEARN MORE
Volunteer Center of Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville St., Greensboro, NC 27405, 373-1633 or www.volunteergso.org.