Volunteer Talking with Visitors |
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Major Duties
The Volunteer will supplement the interpretive program and provide visitors with an understanding of the primary themes and stories of the fort.
Provide the visitor with accurate information about the events which occurred at Fort Stanwix and give visitors insight into what the life of the people at the fort was like.
Dress in the appropriate 18th century clothing which is accurate to the period portrayed at Fort Stanwix.
Talk to all visitors in a polite, courteous manner.
Factors
Knowledge Required by the Position
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to work and deal harmoniously with people.
A good working knowledge of the fort's history.
A general knowledge of the Northern Campaign of 1777, and the American Revolutionary War.
Knowledge of 18th century military dress, equipment, life styles and selected military/domestic skills.
A general knowledge and understanding of the National Park Service's mission and philosophy.
Volunteers involved in black powder weapons demonstrations must be certified annually by the park's Black Powder Supervisor before being allowed to fire small arms or cannon.
Supervisory Controls
Volunteer receives general supervision and assignments from the volunteer coordinator, while other staff provides guidance and coaching. The Volunteer Coordinator is usually available, but the majority of the time the volunteer will have to act independently, using initiative and judgement.
Guidelines
Consists of training sessions, orientation materials, general performance standards and agency policies and objectives.
Scope and Effect
Performs specific operations designed to educate, protect, and serve park visitors and resources. The success of the interpretive program depends in part on the skill of the volunteer in communicating to the visitor.
Personal Contacts
Contacts are with the general public, special interest groups, park staff and other park volunteers. These contacts facilitate effective park operations and provide information about the park so visitors will have an interesting experience and an understanding of the park's purpose.
Physical and Other Requirements/Work Environment
Good physical health, emotional and mental stability, unimpaired speech. There may be periods of prolonged standing and/or walking. The volunteer could be subject to inclement weather and extreme temperature ranges and variations. A pleasant, positive personality is necessary for public contact. Tact and diplomacy are important in handling emergency situations created by visitors such as sudden illness, accidents, acts of vandalism and disorderly contact. Work environment is a mixture of indoor and outdoor settings, with prolonged times possible in either setting.
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