Become Involved!
We are all connected to our ocean through our actions and there’s no easier contribution than giving your time. As a non-profit organization, Sea Turtle Inc depends on volunteers to educate our guests on the importance of conservation. By volunteering with us, you can be part of a federally protected program that serves the most critically endangered sea turtle in the Endangered Species List.
Volunteer Benefits
- Become part of a world-renowned team of conservationists
- Volunteer orientation materials and handbook
- Gift Shop discounts
- Social events & opportunities
- Specialized training in conservation (depending on availability)
Requirements
- Must be at least 15 years of age to apply
- Must pay a $25 program fee (covers background check and t-shirt)
- Must pass a criminal background check
Please note: We do not accept court-ordered community service applicants.
Volunteer Tier System
Application Process
Adults
Application for anyone 18 years or older
- Complete an open application
- Pass a criminal background check
- Pay a $25 program fee for shirt and background check fee
- Complete and pass our Volunteer Orientation online quiz
Teens
Application for 15-17 year olds
- Complete an open application
- Pass a criminal background check
- Pay a $25 program fee for shirt and background check fee
- Complete and pass our Volunteer Orientation online quiz
Please call the Education Department (956)761-4511 ext. 102 or email volunteer@seaturtleinc.org if you have any questions or concerns regarding the application process and/or volunteering at our facility.
Volunteer Positions Available
The majority of our volunteer opportunities are education based. Please note our volunteers do not directly interact with any of the rehabilitation processes at our facility.
Resident Advocate
Educating the public on what is means to be a Resident Sea Turtle.
Hospital Greeter
Welcome guests, share Reyna info (QR Tour), and hand out maps on request.
Projector Area
Educate visitors on sea turtle species and oversee the touch screen and projector on anatomy and digestion.
Headstart (Tank 6)
Inform guests about our Rescue, Rehabilitation & Release process.
Cold Stun Event & Recovery
Share info on the Cold Stun Room and the 2021 record event.
Clinic
Educate on entanglement risks, show recovered debris, discuss treatments, and explain how to help protect sea turtles.
Crustacean Station
Assist rehab staff with prepping seafood for turtle patients and residents.
Maintenance Assistant
Assist staff with facility maintenance, including cleaning, painting, repairs, and general upkeep.
Gift Shop Assistant
Assist with pricing, folding, restocking, and keeping the gift shop organized.
In the above video, our volunteer Arturo is educating guests as the Resident Advocate
In the above photo, our volunteers are greeting guests as Hospital Greeter
Whether you are here for a few weeks or a few years, if you are passionate about the conservation, education, and rehabilitation surrounding sea turtles, we want you!
Find out if your employer supports volunteer efforts with incentive programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Applicants must be at least 15 years of age
Volunteer shifts can vary between 2 to 4 hours depending on position and location
Volunteering at our organization can look different depending on what department you volunteer with and the time of year. There are currently two areas in which you can volunteer: on-site education and conservation (seasonal positions). Each department may have specific training and requirements to complete before signing-up for shifts.
Unfortunately, no. Sea Turtles are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act which makes it illegal to touch or work with them without proper permitting.