Volunteer Courthouse Education Guide

Are you interested in helping others connect with democracy?

Mission:

Discovering Justice brings students and communities together to examine the workings of the justice system, explore the ideals of justice, and prepare them to engage in our democracy.

Vision:

We envision a society in which everyone is well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and desire to build and sustain an equitable democracy.

Location:

This is an in-person volunteer role at the John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse, located at 1 Courthouse Way, Boston, MA.

Courthouse Programs:

Discovering Justice was founded in 1998, with the goal of activating the civic space of the John Joseph Moakley United States Courthouse to the public. Each year, Discovering Justice welcomes thousands of visitors to the courthouse for tours, hands-on educational activities, meetings with judges and the chance to observe live court proceedings. Volunteer Courthouse Education Guides (CEG) are an integral part of supporting these visits.

Job Description:

• Lead thirty to sixty minute tours of the courthouse for groups of up to 30 participants
• Accompany groups to visits with judges and other courthouse staff
• Accompany groups to observe live court proceedings
• Facilitate debrief conversations after observing proceedings

Requirements:

• Age 18+
• Federal regulations require a Photo ID to enter the courthouse

This Might Be A Good Fit for You If…

• You’re interested in law, civics, architecture, or education
• You have experience or want to gain experience in speaking to groups from 1st grade through adult
• You’re looking for a way to promote civic engagement
• You’re excited about lifelong learning

Commitment:

Discovering Justice asks for a commitment of at least one school year from Volunteer CEGs. Guides are expected to lead six groups in a year (but are welcome to lead more!)

Group visits are offered Tuesdays through Fridays, from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Please note that most group visits are held weekday mornings and availability for at least one weekday morning is required for this position.

Volunteer CEGS are expected to arrive 25 minutes prior and remain 15 minutes after a visit.

• For example, if a visit is scheduled for 10-12, you can expect to be in the courthouse from 9:35-12:15pm.

Next Steps:

• You will be invited to have an intro call with our Courthouse Program Manager
• If selected to move on with the process you will be required to:
  • Attend a two-hour training at the Moakley Courthouse (to be held in the fall)
  • Shadow at least one tour
  • Give a sample tour to a group of Discovering Justice staff

Don’t worry, we provide tour scripts, informational sheets, and tips on facilitation!

To apply and get this process started, please complete the application form located at https://form.jotform.com/250076597534161