All of us here at the AWCC would like to give a huge shout-out to our summer 2020 volunteers! COVID-19 greatly impacted AWCC’s operations this season and the support of our volunteers was invaluable in helping us uphold our mission during these difficult times. We couldn’t have done it without them! We hope you enjoy this AWCC Volunteers – Summer 2020 Highlight! *Photos correspond clockwise from top left*
Cassie Workentine – Education Docent Volunteer
I recently moved to Anchorage, AK this past May! I was thrilled when I found out about the volunteer program at AWCC back in November when my husband and I first visited Alaska. The top-notch education we received at each enclosure and the clear passion and enthusiasm displayed by the staff and docents was nothing short of exciting! So much so, that a few weeks after our move I wanted to start volunteering as a docent.
My experience at AWCC has been rewarding in every way. I have the opportunity to explain fun facts and life histories of brown and black bears to visitors! This involvement, not only in spending time with this new natural world around me and also the people who care to learn more about it, is an extraordinary way to give and receive joy through volunteering. The AWCC has done so much for its animal residents, and I can’t wait to see and learn more about each and every one of them!
Monica Wey – Education Docent Volunteer
Hi, I’m Monica! And I’m a volunteer education docent at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. Being a volunteer here has been a very special experience – a dream come true really. I’ve always wanted to work with animals and be a part of helping to educate the public on wildlife safety and helping to keep our animals wild. It’s been so much fun to give the Bear’s Business and Kobuk Curriculum talks and getting to interact with many guests and answer their questions. Giving these programs has helped me grow as an educator and given me confidence in public speaking. It’s been a very educational experience for me and it’s also been wonderful to give my time to such a wonderful organization. It’s been really fun getting to know all the animals and staff and learn lots of new fun animal facts!
Cannon Fidler – Animal Care Volunteer
I’m a local Alaskan raised between the Chugach and the Talkeetna Mountain Ranges. Many of us grow up loving animals, I was no exception. My first job was working around muskox all day and I did that for several years.
I learned that each animal has individuality. Learning that and having compassion for all living things, I decided Wildlife Rehabilitation is where I want to end up in my career. This year has been crazy and through several events, I was able to score a volunteer program with AWCC. This summer is one of the most memorable summers I’ve experienced. Probably my favorite memories were being able to wake up at 4:00 AM and be Momma Moose for our two baby orphans, Pip and Jo. Each animal touched my heart in their own special ways but two stood out from the others, Kobuk the creative black bear, and Baby Ruth the curious porcupine. I am so thrilled that I could gain animal care experience at AWCC. Thank you to all the staff and animals for making my summer an amazing experience.
Ollie Landaur – Animal Care Volunteer
I’m Ollie, and I’m so excited to have the opportunity to spend my summer with AWCC. During the school year, I study veterinary medicine at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh, Scotland, where I will be entering my third year of a five-year program. I grew up in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado and often spent my weekends hiking and snowboarding in the mountains. I love being outside, so I plan on pursuing a career working with wildlife.
We hope you enjoyed our AWCC Volunteers – Summer 2020 Highlight! Interested in volunteering with us? We’re currently looking for recurring volunteers with a strong work ethic and interest in conservation. Opportunities include Education Docents and more. Learn more on our Volunteer at the AWCC page.