Teaching Volunteer or Intern

~ Thorne Nature Experience is a non-profit organization that is committed to building Earth stewardship by connecting youth to nature through joyful, hands-on, place-based environmental education experiences. ~

Founded in Boulder, CO in 1954, Thorne has a rich history and has reached more than 200,000 children and adults through its programs. We are looking for help getting youth outside and connecting to the wild landscapes of Colorado! 

Internship Overview

Volunteer and Intern opportunities vary by season, time commitment, and location. Opportunities include: leading 2nd Grade Field Trip Programs in Boulder and Longmont, facilitating After School Programs in Boulder County schools, and assisting with Summer Camp Programs across Boulder County’s open spaces. Volunteers and Interns work closely with Thorne staff to mentor youth along their journey of nature connection, and will get more connected to nature themselves.

Note: Be sure to click here to access full position descriptions and dates available on Thorne's website. 

Principal Responsibilities

• Attend all scheduled program dates;
• Support Thorne Instructors by assisting in leading and facilitating After School Programs with the guidance of Thorne staff;
• Assist with program logistics: taking photos/video, managing students and materials;
• Act as a role model for students and teachers, illustrating appropriate behavior and environmental ethics;
• Encourage joyful, safe, meaningful, nature-based experiences for students; and
• Complete all required forms and submit all required information needed by Thorne Nature Experience and/or the relevant school district.

Qualifications/Requirements

Desired Skills and Abilities:

• Strong communication skills with adults and children;
• Good organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally;
• Good knowledge of Colorado ecology and natural science preferred;
• Experience relating to and communicating with diverse audiences, especially Mexican American participants preferred;
• Bi-lingual in Spanish and English encouraged to apply; and
• People of Color encouraged to apply.

Desired Behavioral Traits and Attitudes:

• Team player, fun, outgoing, passionate, organized, creative, resourceful, critical thinker, results-oriented, and self motivated;
• Strong interest in and/or with some experience teaching environmental education in informal settings;
• Passionate about Thorne’s mission and environmentally concerned and aware;
• Contribute towards Thorne’s Core Value of inclusiveness, respecting the perspectives and contributions of all people;
•  Preference for those with or working on a High School Diploma, Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Education, Environmental Studies, Biology, Geology, Education, or related field; and
• Preference for those with experience or a strong desire to work with school-age children.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be 16 or older; and
• Background check submitted and cleared by the Colorado Department of Human Services (Thorne pays for this).

To Apply

Please click "Apply" below to complete our online Volunteer and Intern Application to get started at Thorne!

• If you have any questions or concerns, please email or call Gwen Tenney.