Do you have an interest in Sacramento’s early history? Do you get excited at the idea of recreating pioneer activities like churning butter, making barrels or dressing in period attire?
If so, volunteering at Sacramento’s iconic Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park (SHP) may be just right for you.
A new session of docent training classes will soon be available for those interested in helping to interpret pioneer California history to the public. To find out more information and meet current docents, a special Volunteer Open House is scheduled for Saturday, Mar. 19, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Fort.
Each year, more than 150 individuals volunteer for Sutter’s Fort SHP programs — including interpretation, restoration and maintenance work, research, and even clerical work. A background in history is not required to become a volunteer. In fact, most of the volunteers in the popular program began with little knowledge of early California.
As individuals become more familiar with the Fort’s varied and frequent programs, many take on additional responsibilities, such as conducting research or giving talks to community organizations. Volunteering represents a serious commitment of at least 84 volunteer hours annually, but the hours are flexible and the rewards can be tremendous. Docents receive perks such as discounts at the Museum Store, preferential and/or early access to selected special events and the pride of working on the historic Fort grounds.
Interested volunteers are encouraged to RSVP for the Open House by Wednesday, Mar. 16. To RSVP, or to receive more information about training dates and requirements, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Llonel Onsurez at (916) 323-2015. Volunteer applications can be downloaded at parks.ca.gov and completed forms can be emailed to llonel.onsurez@parks.ca.gov or mailed/delivered to Sutter’s Fort SHP during the Park’s open hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily).
Volunteer applications are being accepted now through March 31 and will be followed by an interview process. For general information about Sutter’s Fort SHP, please call 916-445-4422 or visit suttersfort.org.
