Henderson and Polk County Wild for Art Programs

Volunteer with Champions for Wildlife!

At Champions for Wildlife, our mission is to protect wildlife by inspiring the next generation to care about the natural world. We bring wildlife education to children throughout Henderson and Polk counties through our classroom programs and outdoor exploration.

We offer two main types of programs for volunteers to support:

Our signature Wild for Art programs introduce K-5 students to local wildlife through engaging lessons, hands-on exploration, and art. The art is more than craft time: it gives students a chance to process what they've learned, share an animal's story, and build a deeper connection with wildlife.

We also offer Nature in your Backyard (NIYB) programs, held outdoors at schools or in partnership with local sites such as Henderson's Historic Johnson Farm. These programs invite students to explore nature directly through guided discovery, observation, and curiosity-based learning in outdoor environments.

We're looking for volunteers to help make these experiences possible!

What Volunteers Do

Depending on the program, volunteers may:

• Support students during wildlife lessons and art activities in classroom-based programs
• Help students observe biofacts such as bones, fur, feathers, nests, and other natural materials
• Join students for outdoor Nature in your Backyard programs
• Prepare, organize, and clean up program materials
• Encourage students, answer questions, and help them stay engaged

Who We're Looking For

You do not need to be an expert in wildlife, art, or education. We provide training, resources, and support.

Our volunteers are:

• Friendly, encouraging, and comfortable working as part of a team
• Curious and willing to learn
• Interested in wildlife, nature, art, education, or community service
• Comfortable completing light physical tasks associated with program setup and cleanup
• Willing to complete required background checks when volunteering in schools

Experience working with children is helpful, but not required.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering with Champions for Wildlife is an opportunity to make a difference for wildlife while helping children discover the natural world around them. You'll gain hands-on experience in environmental education, learn plenty of fascinating wildlife facts, and become part of a community of people who care about nature and conservation.

Volunteer as little as a few hours a month or as often as your schedule allows. We'll help you find opportunities that fit your interests and availability.

Explore. Create. Protect.