Docent Volunteers
Share Your Passion as a Volunteer Docent
Docents foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and the Lincoln Park Conservatory by serving as volunteer guides, welcoming and inspiring visitors from around the world!
Responsibilities Include
- Engaging with visitors in a friendly and positive manner
- Leading tours
- Tracking visitor interactions
Position Requirements
- Comfortable speaking with individuals and groups of all sizes, ages, and backgrounds
- Able to communicate clearly and confidently with visitors, staff, and fellow volunteers
- Willing and able to deepen knowledge of topics including but not limited to Chicago history, horticulture, and conservation
- Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older
If you’re interested in joining our team of volunteer docents and supporting these historic sites, please select and complete an application for one of the sites below:
NOTE: Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool and Lincoln Park Conservatory docent training enrollment has reached capacity for 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Lincoln Park Conservancy docent?
A Lincoln Park Conservancy docent is a volunteer who acts as a guide and informal educator for the Lincoln Park Conservatory and Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, enriching the experience for visitors to our beautiful park.
What does a docent do?
A docent engages in various activities to improve the visitor experience. This includes leading informal tours of the Lincoln Park Conservatory and Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool. Docents also answer questions about horticulture, conservation, and the history of Lincoln Park, sharing their knowledge with visitors.
How do I become a docent?
To become a docent, you must complete the docent training program for either the Lincoln Park Conservatory or Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool.
What is the docent training program?
The docent training program is a 4-week course held on Saturdays from approximately 9 AM to noon. Conservatory training takes place in the fall, while Lily Pool training occurs in the spring. The program covers a variety of topics, including architecture, horticulture, conservation, and more, to prepare volunteers for their role as docents.
Can I attend both Conservatory and Lily Pool training?
You may attend only one training program per year, either for the Conservatory or the Lily Pool.
How do I apply to become a docent?
Please submit a training interest form through the Lincoln Park Conservancy’s website to be added to the waitlist for the appropriate training program. Applications typically open in the months leading up to the training sessions.
What kind of skills or experience do I need to become a docent?
No prior experience in horticulture or conservation is required to become a docent. However, successful candidates should enjoy interacting with visitors, be eager to learn, and be passionate about sharing knowledge with others.
Will I be able to work with the plants as a docent?
No, docent responsibilities do not include working with the plants on site.
Who can I contact if I have more questions about the docent program
Have questions? For questions not addressed in the FAQ, please contact the Manager of Volunteer Programs, Jason Knowles.