BBQ kicks off volunteer event at museum

Whether you’re interested in meeting new people or have a desire to learn more about the Mennonite Heritage Village, there’s a spot for you on the team of volunteers. 

Program Manager Robert Goertzen says they have volunteers who stick around throughout the winter, but most get started in spring and then help until fall is over. 

“Spring and summer is when our volunteer participation really ramps up. So, we're again planning to have an orientation for all volunteers, both new and returning, on April 25th this year. We're going to start at 6:00 with the BBQ, so we're inviting everyone to come down who either has some special skills or just wants to help out at the museum once or a few times this summer.  

“We have lots of opportunities for that, and it's a great way, first of all, to meet other volunteers, but secondly, it's a great way to find out what the museum is doing this summer, any special events that we were planning, and then also what some of the opportunities are for volunteering, whether that's working outdoors with carpentry or mechanics or animal care, or whether it’s working with school groups where you learn about certain buildings and become an interpreter for school visitors or festival visitors.” 

Mennonite Heritage Village needs volunteers of all ages to help with a variety of activities. (Photo Credit: MHV)

Goertzen says there are plenty of volunteer opportunities. 

“We also have sign-up for training sessions, so that's if you feel like, ‘well I'd like to (volunteer) but I don't know very much about the museum,’ then we also provide those training sessions before we ask you to help out.” 

Volunteer Orientation will happen on Thursday, April 25th from 6pm-9pm. 

Ever wonder what it takes to run a printing press? Have you ever churned butter or baked bread in a brick oven? Whether serving ice cream in the short order booth, face painting, or blacksmithing, we have plenty of unique volunteer opportunities for you to explore. This is your chance to try something new! 

Join us for a BBQ at 6pm on April 25th with a brief orientation of the volunteer opportunities for 2024 to follow. There will be opportunities to sign up for training sessions to learn historical interpretation and new skills. New and returning volunteers are welcome – Bring a friend! 

Volunteers make the summer kitchen smell great with fresh bread. (Photo Credit: Mennonite Heritage Village)