Scheduled programs only touch a fraction of our total visitors. Visitor programs such as docent carts should receive increased attention. Live interpreters, often volunteers, engage and educate our general visitor. Effective volunteer management and training expands the benefits of good program development. Program Funding Program growth means innovative approaches to funding.
Many programs pay their own way through fees to the individual or group.
Popular programs like summer camps and overnights generate surplus income that can support other programs or expenses. Hiring a volunteer coordinator to recruit and train volunteers returns many hours of live interpretation. Internships or graduate programs can add highly trained and highly motivated staff temporarily for program work or research. Federal and state grants support some zoo and aquarium programs. Contracts with school districts can include cost-sharing of instructors or materials.