Volunteer Opportunities

Interested in getting out and becoming actively involved with Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary? Check out the sanctuary's volunteer programs.

As a volunteer, you can help sanctuary staff while you explore interests, develop marketable skills, enrich your own education, discover new talents, have fun, and make a difference in your community. By becoming a volunteer, you will not only be learning about the sanctuary, but also helping others learn. In this way, you are helping to build awareness and enhance stewardship of Key's habitats.

Current volunteer opportunities:

  • Docent at the Eco-Discovery Center in Key West: work a 4 hour shift once per week, greeting guests, hosting programs and activities, and assisting with other duties in the center as needed
  • Outreach team volunteer: work alongside our team of educators throughout the Keys at community and school events
  • Got a special skill like GIS or buoy installation? We invite individuals with a variety of skills and interests to join our growing volunteer program.

Volunteer requirements:

  • Volunteers must undergo a background check including fingerprinting, this can take several weeks to complete
  • Volunteers must be 16 years of age or older for docent and education team opportunities.
  • Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older to participate in any on-water activity.

To sign up to receive email updates on upcoming volunteer training and opportunities, join our volunteer listserv. For specific questions or for further information, contact our volunteer coordinator, Elizabeth Trueblood.

Key West Office
Nancy Foster Environmental Complex
33 East Quay Road
Key West, FL 33040
305-809-4700
FAX: 305-293-5011
Key Largo Office
95230 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-7717
FAX: 305-853-0877


Team OCEAN volunteer on the water

Team OCEAN
One way to get involved and make a difference in the protection of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary resources is through the sanctuary’s Team OCEAN program. More

Volunteering at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Volunteer at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center volunteers play an important role in educating visitors about the displays and Keys ecosystems. More

volunteering with kids

Other Volunteer Opportunities
Beyond activities coordinated by the sanctuary, there are opportunities to get involved with other organizations dedicated to protecting the Florida Keys ecosystem. More