Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin
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Volunteer on the S/V Denis Sullivan!

Whether it’s one or two times a year or on a more permanent basis, Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin has a myriad of wonderful volunteer opportunities for you!

Volunteers can really make a difference to enhance the visitor’s experience, from assisting with hands-on activities, helping with the success of a special event, to providing staff with administrative support.

For additional information please email volunteer@discoveryworld.org.

Download a Volunteer Application

On Board Educator

On-Board Educators work aboard the S/V Denis Sullivan, a re-creation of an 1880’s Great Lakes cargo schooner as they teach organized activities involving water quality, biology, and conservation to students in grades 4-12 taking part in the Lake Watch Expedition program.

Volunteers wishing to work as On-Board Educators are required to attend a training session prior to their service.  Training sessions are offered each spring and fall. Volunteers who complete training for Lake Watch Expeditions are asked to volunteer during at least one program each year.

Lake Watch Expeditions run each year from late May to early June and again in September.

Marina Docent

Marina Docents enhance the visitor experience by relaying information about Discovery World and the schooner Denis Sullivan while aiding in dockside operations including controlling, docking, and tying boat traffic and ensuring the safety of visitors on the docks. Opportunities begin in June and continue through end of boating season.

Orientation and training required (a few hours).

Ability to swim preferred (as a precaution because you are near the water).

Minimum age for teens is 15 Volunteers wishing to work as Marina Docents are required to commit to working a minimum of one five hour shift each week for the duration of the season (summer-fall).

Volunteer Deckhand

Volunteer Deck Hands on the S/V Denis Sullivan, a re-creation of an 1880’s Great Lakes cargo S/V assist with the operational needs of the vessel both at the docks and under sail. A multi-day informational and training session is required for anyone who wishes to pursue this opportunity.  Position availability is limited on the basis of many factors including, but not limited to, the needs of the crew, weather factors, and sailing schedules.

Vessel Trades Projects

Volunteers who are trained in various areas of the trades are often needed to complete vessel related projects including plumbing, welding, electrical, and carpentry for the S/V Denis Sullivan, a re-creation of an 1880’s Great Lakes cargo schooner.

If you have background in the trades, and would like to volunteer your assistance as needed, please contact the Volunteer Services Department to discuss your skills and qualifications.

Maintenance Assistant

Volunteers can assist with the basic maintenance and repair needs of the S/V Denis Sullivan, a re-creation of an 1880’s Great Lakes cargo schooner.  General tasks include painting, cleaning, carpentry projects, and tarring/tightening of the rigging.

Maintenance projects generally take place on Mondays during the Milwaukee season (May-September).

Volunteer Benefits

Help fulfill our mission
Work towards free membership
Annual recognition dinner
And much more!

Virtual Voyage
eNewsletter  
Our Hours

Calendar

May

Showing through May 19th.. CENTENNIAL: STEAMING THROUGH THE AMERICAN CENTURY

A series of 32 photographs of the S.S. St. Mary's Challenger by Milwaukee Photojournalist Christopher Winters.

 

03

FILM: INLAND SEAS: Understanding and Protecting the Waters of the Great Lakes

Showing every Saturday and Sunday in May. more..

  

03

SCOUT Program : Webelos Engineer Activity

 

04

MPTV Film Series: Coming to Milwaukee

Tuesday, April 22 - Wednesday, May 4

 

06

ADULT Program: Graphic Design Seminar

 

09

SLEEP-IN Program

Discovery World is yours to explore all night long!

  

13

ADULT Program: Graphic Design Seminar

  

15

MEMBERS NIGHT!

Join us for the Ira Flatow lecture, film preview, sneak peak of the Briggs and Stratton Milwaukee Muscle exhibit, and more!

 

17

FAMILY Program : Build a Backyard Weather Station

 

20

MPTV Film Series: The Best of Times and the Worst of Times

Tuesday, May 20 - Wednesday, June 8