Volunteer Opportunities

Tara Young, Director of Education and Public Programs
508-853-6015, ext.15, tyoung@higgins.org

Volunteer Opportunities at the Higgins Armory Museum. Spend your days with our Knights!

The Higgins Armory Museum has the unique distinction of being the only museum in the western hemisphere dedicated solely to the study and display of arms & armor. Whatever volunteer opportunity you choose, the Higgins welcomes enthusiastic and interested people to join the dynamic team who help make up the "Court" in our "Castle." Contribute as many hours as you choose and make up your own schedule. Volunteer benefits include: free admission to all Museum programs (including symposia, music and lecture series), gift shop discount, professional development workshops, an annual volunteer recognition luncheon and participation in the Education Department Outing. Check the descriptions below and see what role matches your interest!

Brass Rubbings Center
Are you looking for a fun volunteer job or a way to meet a community service requirement at your school?
Volunteers are needed for the new Brass Rubbings Center at the Higgins Armory Museum, opening in July. Work with the public to assist them in making brass rubbings from reproductions of historic tombstone markers. Requires: friendly and helpful visitor-centered attitude; comfort with art supplies and cash handling; interest in history and the mission of the Museum. Hours are flexible during the Museum’s open hours, Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. We are looking for people who can commit to a regular 3 or 4 hour shift once or twice a month. Volunteers must be 16; under 18 requires the permission of a parent. To apply: please send letter of interest and resume or list of relevant experience. Send via email (preferred) or mail to: Tara Young, tyoung@higgins.org or Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Avenue, Worcester, MA 01606.

Museum Shop
Help in the daily activities of the Museum Shop including pricing items, re-stocking shelves, interacting with customers (including numerous children) all in a fun environment! Contact Anne Burke at (508) 853-6015 ext. 14 or arburke@higgins.org for information.

Gallery Interpreter
During museum hours Tuesdays through Saturday from 10:00-4:00 and Sundays from 12:00-4:00, our Gallery Interpreters assist visitors in our Great Hall by answering questions and offering guidance concerning museum programs. Choose a few hours or a few days. Collection training will be provided.

Arms and Armor Demonstrator and Tour Guide
Regular programs with our museum include presenting auditorium demonstrations to the public concerning the history of the museum and the evolution of arms and armor and providing group tours of the collection. Those interested in public speaking and engaging directly with the public and our collection will enjoy the variety and unique opportunities this role provides. Collection and touring training will be provided.

Special Events Volunteer
Higgins Faire, festival days, music and lecture programs and special events like our Medieval Banquets always require a few extra hands. Volunteer to assist with the event and you attend for free! Responsibilities may include admission, handing out brochures, and guiding the public to their destinations.

Crafts and Workshops Assistant
As an integral part of our programming, we offer a series of craft workshops ranging from heraldic shields to falconry. Come and be part of the creative staff that develops new workshops and prepares materials for the present offerings. No prior experience is required.

Education Department Assistant
Frequently the Department needs a few extra hands to stuff envelopes for mailings, help distribute fliers and assist with other clerical needs. The Department will issue an announcement to volunteers that mailings are coming up and inquire as to your availability. Contribute as much time as you desire.

Membership Volunteer
Help with our membership campaign! At special events and certain Museum functions, our membership staff discusses the benefits of membership and pass out our membership applications. Become part of the team that makes our Museum family grow!

Higgins Volunteer Benefits

As a volunteer at the Higgins Armory Museum you will enjoy interacting with a dynamic staff, amazing collection and diverse public audience. In addition, the Higgins enjoys rewarding its volunteers for all their hard work and dedication. Please find a listing below of just a few of the benefits of being a Higgins Volunteer!

Membership:

• After 50 hours of volunteering you will receive an individual membership, which allows free admission for one guest, gift store discounts and invitations to special events and museum programs.
• After 100 hours of volunteering you will receive a family membership, which allows free admission for all family members, gift store discounts and invitations to special events and museum programs.

Store Discount:

All Museum volunteers receive a 25% discount in the Museum Store.

Workshop, Special Event and Symposium Invitations:

Throughout the year, the Museum offers a wide range of public offerings including the Winter Ball, Special Exhibit Symposiums, participatory workshops and lectures. Volunteers are invited to attend these events for free.

Volunteers are an extremely valuable resource for a cultural institution such as ours, and we look forward to welcoming you into our community. Please contact Tara Young, Director of Education and Public Programs, at (508) 853-6015, ext.15 with any questions or comments, or e-mail tyoung@higgins.org.