Volunteers work with the public and behind the scenes to support the work of Historic Alexandria. For the most up-date-list of opportunities and days of the week needed, see the volunteer application. Historic Alexandria also offers internship opportunities for students interested in career experience.

Volunteer Application

When considering applying, please consider the following: 

• Age Requirement: 16 and older for all volunteer opportunities outside of the Junior Docent program. Students in 4th through 6th grade may be interested in applying for the Junior Docent program, which accepts applications February through mid-March annually.
• Time commitment: While volunteer shifts vary, they are typically a minimum of three hours.
• Training: All volunteers receive a general orientation. Additional training based on the position is often required.
• Process: After submitting a volunteer application, a staff member will be in touch to begin the placement process.

Active volunteers enjoy the following benefits through the Office of Historic Alexandria:

• Free admission to all museums in the City of Alexandria
• Quarterly newsletter
• Invitations to special events
• Book club with experts
• Discounted tickets to public programs
• Discount in museum shops
• Annual volunteer recognition party

The Junior Docent Program provides a space for students to build confidence and public speaking skills by sharing historic content with visitors of Gadsby’s Tavern Museum. 

Junior Docent Application

Applications for the Junior Docent program must be submitted by Wednesday, March 19 at 4 p.m. Applicants will be notified the following day if they have been selected for an audition, which will take place Sunday, March 23. Those accepted will be required to attend weekend training during the school year and volunteer for at least three Sunday afternoons during the summer. For more information or questions, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator through Alex311.

Local NPR station WAMU covered the Junior Docent program in August of 2024. You can see pictures and hear the full story to learn more about this program. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

What grades may apply?
Students in grades 4-6 at the time of the application are eligible to apply. 

What do Junior Docents do?
Junior Docents are primarily trained to give "stationed tours" covering one room or station of Gadsby's Tavern Museum on Sundays during the summer. Occasional volunteer opportunities are available during the school year. Once accepted into the program, Junior Docents can return each year without reapplying. 

Will museum staff always be present during volunteer shifts?
Yes, a staff member is always walking through the rooms to check on students and provide feedback in addition to a front desk staff member and teen peer mentors. 

Is there a fee for my child to participate in the program?
There is no fee to participate! The Museum also provides a free t-shirt and nametag to wear during shifts.

Does a parent/guardian need to stay at the museum during shifts?
No, an adult is only required to check-in with staff at drop-off and pick-up, but is not required to stay for the entire shift. Note: families can visit for free and see their student in action!
 

Whether or not you volunteer, there are other ways to support history in Alexandria.

• Join a Friends Group.
• Subscribe to Alexandria eNews. 
• Shop in our Museum Stores, in person or online.
• Make tax-deductible contributions to our museums or through our Friends groups.
• Tell us about objects, documents or photographs that you may have that are relevant to local history. Consider a donation to museum collections.
• Share your memories and stories of living and growing up in Alexandria, through The Alexandria Oral History Center.