Program description:
The Mills County Historical Museum offers a variety of volunteer opportunities from Greeter to Display Management to caring for Artifacts, helping with Events, Decorating and any specialty area of interest. Training is available and some volunteer work can be done remotely. Depending on volunteers’ area of interest help is needed with database input for collections, research for local history or artifacts, assisting with storage and preservation of photography collection, assisting with exhibits – research, labeling, arranging, etc. Additionally, volunteers may choose to volunteer with for front desk hours where you greet community members and provide museum overview, answer phone and help with copying tasks. There are also opportunities to provide museum tours and assist with special events.
Location: Mills County Historical Museum (20 Lake Drive, Glenwood, Iowa)
Duties – Front Desk Support:
· Attending training for specific areas of interest.
· Greet and assist visitors.
· Maintain a clean and welcoming front desk area.
· Provide information about the museum.
· Promote Mills County Historical Museum throughout the community.
Duties – Research Assistant:
· Attending training for specific areas of interest.
· Assist staff with archival research and cataloging historical materials.
· Compile information for exhibits and educational programs.
· Organize and maintain research files and resources.
· Promote Mills County Historical Museum throughout the community.
Duties – Exhibit Docent:
· Attending training for specific areas of interest.
· Lead guided tours of the museum, sharing knowledge about exhibits and the history of Grinnell.
· Engage with visitors, answering questions and encouraging discussion.
· Set up and take down exhibits as directed.
· Promote Mills County Historical Museum throughout the community.
Duties – Special Events:
· Attending training for specific areas of interest.
· Assist in planning and executing museum events.
· Support event setup, registration, and logistics on the day of the event.
· Decorate museum for holidays and activities.
· Promote Mills County Historical Museum throughout the community.
Special Areas of Interest:
Bring your special interest in Agriculture/machinery, clothing, weaving/sewing/quilting, children’s toys, old storefronts, military, Glenwood Resource Center, railroad/trains, photography, pioneer life, and more. You can take ownership of a display area, work there and sharing your knowledge.
Skills required:
● RSVP volunteers must be 55 years of age or older.
● Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
● Passion for history and community engagement.
● Ability to listen and solve problems.
● Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
● Flexibility to take on various tasks as needed.
Benefits:
● Gain hands-on experience in museum operations and public engagement.
● Opportunity to learn about Mills County’s history and heritage.
● Develop new skills and build a network within the community.
● Receive training and support from museum staff
● Develop lasting relationships with other volunteers.
● Supplemental life and accident insurance while volunteering (see brochure).
Supervision: Supervision is provided by the Museum Director.
Operation information: We are a non-profit volunteer-based organization with a mission to preserve and share the history of Mills County, Iowa, through artifacts. Throughout its history, the Grinnell Historical Museum has been operated by volunteers. The Museum offers its volunteers a unique opportunity to utilize their historical skills and interests in the service of the community. They match assignments with the volunteers’ available time and interests and provide training.
For more information, please contact RSVP Volunteer Coordinator at 712-521-8132 or email sheri.bowen@volunteeriowa.org
