Volunteer Tour Guide, Tree Tour

Position Summary

The Trust for Governors Island seeks volunteer tour guides to join Governors Island’s Public Affairs team. Volunteer tree guides will be responsible for leading a scripted, one-hour long walking tour of Governors Island’s diverse tree canopy for visitors one weekend day per month May-October. This role is an unpaid volunteer position and reports directly to the Visitor Services Manager.

Background

Governors Island is a 172-acre island in the heart of New York Harbor located between Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn waterfront. A former military base closed to the public for nearly two centuries, today the Island is a popular seasonal destination. An award-winning new park is complemented by dozens of unique historic buildings, environmental educational facilities, a rich arts and culture program and a 22-acre National Monument managed by the National Park Service. Unlike anywhere else in New York, Governors Island offers peaceful settings with sweeping views of the Harbor, Lower Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty. Looking ahead, the Island will be activated year-round as a sustainable campus for learning and innovation, with plans for expanded commercial and non-profit uses in its future.

The Trust for Governors Island is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created by the City of New York responsible for the planning, operations and ongoing development of Governors Island. The Trust’s mission is to realize the full potential of Governors Island for the inspiration and enjoyment of all New Yorkers, demonstrating a bold vision for public space.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Greet and help gather tour group members
• Lead tour group on a scripted, one-hour long walking tour of Governors Island’s diverse tree canopy
• Provide visitor information to tour group members including but not limited to directional information, ferry schedules, programming, and service alerts.

Qualifications:

• Exceptional communications and public speaking skills
• Comfort engaging with diverse communities of all ages
• Ability to work in an outdoor environment
• Must be NYC-based throughout the volunteer period

The Trust for Governors Island does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.