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Congratulations Teens In Action program -- winner of the 2004 AZA Education award! --






WELCOME TO ZOOTEENS AT RIVERBANKS!
What are ZooTeens?

The ZooTeen program, a partnership between Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands and Richland County Recreation Commission, reaches out to high school youth in the Columbia, South Carolina, community. ZooTeen participants have the ability to explore career opportunities in zoos and aquariums while learning practical animal care and environmental education skills. ZooTeens are encouraged to use the life skills gained through Riverbanks Zoo's education programs to educate youth and make a difference in their communities.

What do ZooTeens do?

ZooTeens undergo a week of team-building and training sessions to learn all there is to know about being a ZooTeen.

ZooTeens:

Learn how to care for, handle and educate people about animals in the Zoo's education collection.
Supervise education carts and teach Zoo visitors exciting facts about wildlife.
Serve as mentors and guides to Riverbanks Zoo's camp programs.
Build and cultivate relationships with Riverbanks' staff and other ZooTeens.
Participate in outreach activities. Past partners have included Agape Senior Care, Epworth Children’s Home, Boys & Girls Clubs, Children's Hospital, and The Family Shelter.
Engage in professional development sessions including personal finance, conflict resolution, public speaking, college preparation, career goal planning, etc.

ZooTeens are a member of Jane Goodall's international Roots & Shoots Program. Throughout the year ZooTeens teach environmental programs inspired by Roots & Shoots curriculum to local youth.

Why be a ZooTeen?

Being a ZooTeen is a great way to meet new friends, have fun with peers and gain valuable life skills that will help lead to success. Plus ZooTeens provides an opportunity to better understand and appreciate the importance and impact of environmental and wildlife conservation on our future.

How can you be a ZooTeen?

Download the ZooTeen Application (*requires Adobe Reader). Deadline May 5, 2008.

For more information:

Steve Oswanski (Coordinator of Outreach)
Call: 803.779.8717x1140    
Andrea Ferdinand (Coordinator of ZooTeens)
Call: 803.779.8717x1140    

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