Volunteers: The Heart and Soul of The Marine Mammal Center

Volunteers help us rescue and rehabilitate sick and injured marine mammals, educate the public about the conservation of marine mammals and their ocean environment and so much more!

 

Originally founded by three local citizens, The Marine Mammal Center relies heavily on a dynamic volunteer force of over 1,000 individuals throughout our 600 mile operating range. In our expanding and exciting environment, it's their energy and dedication that keep our efforts running smoothly.

Volunteers bring more than spirit and commitment – they work late nights, early mornings, and everything in-between. Animal care volunteers see ugly wounds, emaciated animals, and must sometimes endure the loss of a favorite patient. Stranding volunteers pick-up and transport animals to our sites, often under difficult circumstances. Education Volunteers serve as docents at the Center, at PIER 39 in San Francisco, and at community fairs and events informing the public about marine mammals and our work. As you can see, without the large team of volunteers across multiple areas of our work, we could not do what we do and accomplish our mission!

Our volunteers contribute the time they do because they are passionate about our mission and see their service as an investment in our future. Does that strike a chord with you? If so, we urge you to join us.

There's a Place for You

Volunteering is a great way to meet others who share your concern for wildlife and our ocean environment.

Volunteer opportunities exist in the following areas:

Your special talents can make an important contribution. While you must be at least 18 years of age for some volunteer positions, we do have a Youth Volunteer Program for students interested in animal care. Youth have a separate application process and training schedule than adult volunteers.

If you are over 18 years of age and want to know more about us, or are ready to get started volunteering today, your first step is to attend a New Volunteer Introduction Meeting. We offer one every month.

 

Run 4 Seals!

Register by March 7 and Save Seals!

Register!
Kiki, elephant seal, the Marine Mammal Center
Visit Us!

Extra Tours daily during Ski Week Feb. 18 - 27!

Tours!
chippy, sea lion, the Marine Mammal Center
Save a Seal!

New hope for Hawaiian monk seals!

Learn!
Hawaiian monk seal