Volunteer at Port Discovery!

Port Discovery is always looking for enthusiastic, motivated individuals to join our volunteer team! We are now accepting applications to volunteer with Port Discovery in a variety of roles. Volunteering at Port Discovery is perfect for people looking for a fun, positive environment where they can help children and families learn through play and have the Best Day Ever!  

At Port Discovery, volunteers serve a vital role in providing visitors from Baltimore and beyond with an equitable and inclusive playful learning space. Volunteers will share their expertise and playful energy, while also having opportunities to grow and develop new skills by facilitating projects and programs to serve everyone who visits Port Discovery.     

Opportunities & Information

General Info

  • Port Discovery is seeking volunteers of all ages to fulfill a variety of roles across the museum’s departments.   
  • You must be 15 years of age to volunteer independently and must be attending high school if you are under the age of 18.  
  • Schedules are flexible, but volunteers must be able to commit to working at least 50 hours with Port Discovery.   
  • We love our group & corporate volunteers as well! For more information, email volunteer@portdiscovery.org.  

Apply

Fill out the following form to apply to be a volunteer.

Questions?

Contact Kathryn Schmitt at kschmitt@portdiscovery.org or 410-864-2722.

For group volunteering, contact volunteer@portdiscovery.org.

FAQs

  • What are the requirements for volunteering at Port Discovery?

    Volunteers must be 15 years of age to volunteer independently. If under 18 years of age, volunteers must be currently attending high school. Volunteers must be able to commit to working at least 50 hours with Port Discovery. A background check will be conducted. Volunteer candidates will be expected to conduct an interview with Port Discovery, and they will provide one professional reference. Port Discovery reserves the right to terminate a volunteer if museum standards and practices are violated.

  • How do I get to Port Discovery?

    Port Discovery is located at 35 Market Place in Baltimore, Maryland. Volunteers who drive can park in the Port Discovery employee lot located behind the building, using a one-day parking pass issued on each workday. We are also located next to the Shot Tower/Market Place Metro Subway Station if taking the Metro, and the Lombard Street & Market Place and Baltimore Street & President Street stops if taking the MTA Bus.

  • What is the dress code for volunteers at Port Discovery?

    Volunteers must wear a solid-color shirt with jeans or khaki pants. Clothing must be clean and free from rips/tears or designs. Close-toed shoes are also required. When at Port Discovery, volunteers will wear a Port Discovery volunteer apron and name tag over their clothing. Hats are not permitted, with the exception of religious headwear. Shorts are permitted during the summer months as long as they are knee-length or longer.

  • What kind of shifts are available for volunteers?

    Port Discovery offers flexible shifts according to your availability. Shifts are assigned and organized in varying lengths, depending on needs and interest. Shifts are available primarily on weekends, with weekday shifts available dependent on public school schedules and museum operating hours. Some shifts may be available for special events in evenings or on days such as holidays or Spring & Summer Break. You will meet with the Volunteer and Administrative Coordinator during onboarding to establish your desired positions, interests, and availability. 

  • What roles could I fulfill as a Port Discovery volunteer?

    Port Discovery volunteers fulfill a variety of roles with the museum. When applying to volunteer, you will meet with the Volunteer and Administrative Coordinator to establish which roles and departments you are interested in volunteering with. The Volunteer and Administrative Coordinator will then connect you to supervisors in your interested departments to share more about the availability and duties aligning with your interests. 

  • Who do I talk to if I have more questions?

    Contact Kathryn Schmitt, Volunteer and Administrative Coordinator at Port Discovery, via email or phone. We look forward to having you on the team! 

    Kathryn Schmitt
    kschmitt@portdiscovery.org
    (410) 864-2722 

  • Can I bring a large group of volunteers to Port Discovery for a one-time volunteering session?

    Port Discovery is happy to accommodate corporate volunteer groups as well as churches, high school-age scouting groups, and more! Send an email with your inquiry to volunteer@portdiscovery.org for more information on group volunteering. 

A group of children working together to hold and lift up a giant colorful parachute during an interactive program for kids at Port Discovery
An adult sitting with a child holding up an art project they created in Port Discovery's interactive studio workshop