Volunteer & Docent Programs
Get Involved at Tohono Chul!
Tohono Chul is seeking passionate individuals to serve as volunteers and docents! If you’re inspired by nature, education, or community connection, there’s a place for you here. Explore how you can get involved and help us share the magic of the Sonoran Desert.
Whether you’re planting seeds in the greenhouse or supporting special events, our flexible Volunteer & Docent Program lets you share your time and passion to help our gardens thrive. Join a community rooted in purpose, friendship, and discovery. Plus, enjoy the benefits of a free membership!
Bilingual Volunteers & Docents Welcome!
Buscamos voluntarios bilingües que nos ayuden a conectar con la diversidad de miembros de la comunidad que hacen nuestra región desértica tan especial. ¡Tu tiempo y tu pasión pueden ayudar a que nuestro jardín sea más inclusivo, vibrante y accesible para todos!
All volunteers & docents receive a free Family Membership to Tohono Chul that includes:
- Free daily admission for 2 adults and 4 children/grandchildren (17 and under)
- 10% discount in the Shops, Plant Sales, Desert Corner Nursery, and the Garden Bistro
- And so much more! Click here to explore all the perks that come with a Family Membership to Tohono Chul.
Volunteer Program
Our Volunteer Program welcomes individuals from all walks of life to share their time, talents, and passion through meaningful service to help sustain the vibrant community oasis found at Tohono Chul. Together, we will inspire responsible stewardship of our Sonoran Desert region and ensure that Tohono Chul remains a place of connection and discovery for generations to come.
Key Dates & Timeline
- September 1, 2025 – Volunteer application opens
- September 19, 2025 – Volunteer Open House (5 PM – 7 PM in Sami’s Courtyard)
- September 30, 2025 – Volunteer application closes to the public
- October 13, 2025 – Selected applicants will be contacted to schedule orientation
Volunteer applications are now closed.
Docent Program
Ask questions, activate curiosity, and reconnect with the wonders of the natural world. Being a docent at Tohono Chul means weaving together the stories of the Sonoran Desert with our mission and resources to create vivid, meaningful experiences for our guests. Docents support daily tours, special events, and a wide range of interpretive programs that inspire a deeper connection to the desert.
About Our New Docent Training Program
- Centered around constructivist learning theory
- Develop public speaking and storytelling skills
- Learn more about the flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert
- Engage with the public to instill a sense of appreciation for the wonders of Tohono Chul
- Build community and develop lasting friendships
- Find meaning and purpose by volunteering in a beautiful environment
Tohono Chul’s Docent Training Program will take place every Tuesday and Thursday from 10 AM – 3 PM in the Ed Center Classroom beginning Tuesday, January 13, 2026, and ending Thursday, February 26, 2026.
Cost: $250 per person (including books and materials)
Key Dates & Timeline
- October 1, 2025 – Docent Application opens
- October 17, 2025 – Docent Open House (5 PM – 7 PM in Sami’s Courtyard)
- October 31, 2025 – Docent Application closes
- November 10 through 28, 2025 – Interviews
- December 5, 2025 – Final Candidates contacted
- December 31, 2025 – Payment due
- January 13, 2026 – Docent Training Program start date
- February 26, 2026 – Docent Training Program end date
Docent applications are now closed.
What Our Docents Have to Say…
“I got interested in native plants and gardening as a young person and always enjoyed sharing my passion with others. After moving to Tucson, I chose to become a docent at Tohono Chul and have enjoyed the opportunity to introduce others to our beautiful flora and fauna, along with the rich cultural history of our region. I am happy to do my small part to instill a sense of appreciation and stewardship of our natural world.“
“I absolutely believe in the power of nature to help our world! Interacting with guests and activating their curiosity for the gardens always inspires me. It’s the best opportunity that I’ve ever had to volunteer in a meaningful way, and I find myself happily engaged in a variety of different projects.“
Current Volunteers
Welcome back! Please use the link below to log in and manage your Volgistics account.