Volunteering
Our volunteers’ time and talent are vital
to the success of the Chicago History Museum. If you are college-age or
older, have some free time during a week day or weekend day, and are
looking for an interesting, enriching experience, then volunteering at
the Museum may be for you.
Museum volunteers bring skills, life-experience, and energy to supporting the work of our staff as they donate their time.
Current Opportunities
Catalog Data Entry Assistant
Work with Collections Department staff to convert existing artifact catalog information from paper records into electronic format; create accurate electronic records for decorative arts, paintings, sculptures, costumes, architectural objects, and other artifacts.
> Download the Catalog Data Entry Assistant description (PDF)
Boston Stories Project Researcher
The Boston Stories project seeks a part-time researcher to assist the team with gathering, organizing, mounting, and completing the Archive section of the project website in the final months of what has been a wide-ranging, deeply researched seven-year effort involving publishing a collection of organizational case studies.
> Download the Boston Stories Project Researcher description (PDF)
Training and Commitment
Positions range from a six month to a one year commitment in light of the training involved, but we hope you will stay longer. Training may include seminars, artifact-handling sessions, mentoring, and other tutoring. The weekly hourly commitment varies per position, but most volunteers commit an average of three to six hours per week.
How to Apply to Become a Volunteer
It’s easy to apply! Download the position description(s) of interest and the application. Complete the application and return it to the address indicated on the form. Once we receive your completed application, we will send recommendation forms to your listed references. When the completed reference forms are returned, your application will be considered ready for review and your material will be submitted to the appropriate volunteer project supervisor.
> Download the volunteer application
Volunteer Benefits
- 15% discount in the Museum Store
- Discounted prices to Chicago History Museum programs
- Invitations to special events, exhibition openings, and receptions
- Chicago History magazine
- Invitations to annual volunteer recognition events
- Opportunities for free and low-fee enrichment programs and
excursions
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