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Volunteer policy

 

Volunteer Policy Statement

Volunteers extend the reach of our staff and contribute work that is essential to our mission. Like employees, volunteers are upheld to high standards of service, professionalism, and excellence. The following policy reflects those shared values and helps ensure a meaningful and rewarding experience for all.

Service Categories

Several service categories are available within the volunteer program. Volunteers may serve in more than one category, if time requirements permit. Each volunteer is assigned a staff supervisor for their role. The overall program is overseen by the Tour & Volunteer Coordinator, who provides ongoing support.

  • Archeology - Help process archeological and ethnographic collections, digitize images and slides, and provide data entry support. Whether you are handling an artifact or preserving a cultural record, your work makes Kansas history accessible.
  • Archives - Work behind the scenes to process manuscripts, photographs, and other archival materials, or assist patrons in finding resources in the reference library.
  • Capitol - Conduct guided tours and staff the information desk at the Kansas State Capitol.
  • Museum Welcome Desk - Be the warm, welcoming face that greets visitors! Assist with check-in, guide visitors, and answer general questions.
  • Gallery Guide - Engage visitors by sharing stories that highlight exhibits and deepen their understanding of Kansas history.
  • Students (Ages 13-17) - Join us during the summer months to support programs and gain hands-on experience outside the classroom. Reach out to Mia Santarelli, Tour & Volunteer Coordinator for current opportunities.

Volunteer Benefits 

Volunteers at HollenbergAs a volunteer at the Kansas Historical Society, you will enjoy a range of exclusive benefits such as:

  • Gain a deeper understanding of Kansas history through access to reference materials, hands on experience, and direct collaboration with professional staff.
  • Access to scholarly presentations, lectures, and special programs.
  • Ten percent discount at the museum store.
  • Income tax deductions for out-of-pocket cash expenses incurred as a result of volunteer service.
  • An opportunity to be part of a group of people who are interested in preserving Kansas history and sharing it with the public.

How to Become a Volunteer

Step 1: Complete a volunteer application. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about your interests and skills, and helps us match you with the opportunity that suits you best.
Step 2: Interview with our Tour & Volunteer Coordinator. During this meeting, discuss your experience and availability. It’s a great way to learn more about the program and find the right fit for both of us!
Step 3: Find your match. After the interview, the Tour & Volunteer Coordinator will work to match you with the best opportunity for you. We want your experience to be meaningful and enjoyable, while supporting the mission of the Kansas Historical Society.

Training

Volunteers are expected to attend training sessions required for their service area(s), as outlined by their staff supervisor. If you are unable to attend a required session, please notify your supervisor as soon as possible. Alternative arrangements should be made to ensure volunteers receive the necessary information. Frequent and unexcused absences may affect your volunteer status.

Dress code

As a volunteer, you represent the Kansas Historical Society and for many visitors, you may be their first and only point of contact during their visit. A neat, professional appearance helps cultivate a welcoming experience. Comfortable office appropriate attire is suitable for most volunteer roles, unless clarified by your direct supervisor. Volunteers are to wear their name badge at all times during service hours.

Record keeping requirements

The Kansas Historical Society compiles the hours donated by the volunteers and publishes them in the Society's annual report, along with the names of the volunteers. This information is also used for budget, lobby, and public relations purposes. It is important that all volunteers record the hours they dedicate by using the volunteer time tracker and submit to your supervisor monthly. Volunteers should record the actual hours they work plus travel time to your location of service.

For tax purposes, volunteers can request the number of hours they have contributed or the number of trips to your location of service in a calendar year. This request should be made to the Tour & Volunteer Coordinator. 

Leave of Absence 

Volunteers are asked to notify their staff supervisor if they must take a leaves of absence. Leave will be granted for no longer than one year. If you remain inactive for more than a year, you will need to apply to rejoin the program.

Resignation

In the event that a volunteer decides to resign, a letter of resignation should be submitted to the staff supervisor two weeks prior to the effective date.

Termination

The Society reserves the right to terminate a member's volunteer agreement if their services are no longer needed for any reason. In this event, the volunteer will be given two weeks' notice.