More than 400 dedicated volunteers donate more than 40,000 hours of service to Cleveland Metroparks Zoo each year. Now is your opportunity to join them.

If you're interested, register for one of the Volunteer Safari informational meetings from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 11, or Saturday, November 14. You can make your reservation by calling (216) 661-6500 ext. 4494.

If you're accepted into the Zoo's volunteer program, you'll be asked to attend a training session from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on either Wednesday, November 18, or Saturday, November 21, at the Zoo.

Zoo volunteers serve as ambassadors to the more than 1.2 million people who visit the Zoo each year. Volunteers often greet visitors, answer questions, assist with special events and help with educational programs. Volunteers may go on to become Zoo docents, handling small animals and teaching people about them.

Benefits to being a Zoo volunteer include free Zoo admission, discounts at the gift shop and concession stands and an annual appreciation dinner.

To learn more, visit clemetzoo.com or call (216) 661-6500.