All aboard Holden Arboretum's garden model train

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Pollinators are pulling into the station at the Holden Arboretum this summer... get ready to be inspired by an imaginative world of miniature trains and larger-than-life botanical sculptures. The exhibit features G-scale model trains chugging through a landscape of iconic sculptures that depict unique plants from around the globe, paired with the insects and animals they depend on for pollination. And in an inventive twist, everything is built from natural and botanical materials.

As a Pollinator Express Conductor, you will be engaging with the visitors by sharing the facts about G-scale model railroads and helping create a deeper understanding of the pollinators and plants that call Holden Arboretum home. Additionally, you will help guests orient themselves on the grounds and share other offerings that Holden Arboretum has in store for them during their visit.

We anticipate a surge in non-members for this exhibit running May 25 - September 8, so we are looking for volunteers who are passionate about the Arboretum and our mission. This opportunity is perfect for those who can bestow newcomers with all the great activities and opportunities that the Arboretum campus has to offer.

Responsibilities:

• Support staff and serve as a positive representative of Holden Forests & Gardens
• Follow supervisor instructions to complete tasks
• Greet guests when they arrive at exhibit
• Facilitate learning about the plants and the animals and the environment(s) they can be found in
• Let visitors know about the story trail and, as appropriate, share recommendations for other on-site children's’ activities such as train table and discovery kits in the Visitor Center, Buckeye Bud’s Adventure Woods, NEST
• Assist guests with wayfinding around the Arboretum
• Answer questions about the exhibit and the Holden Arboretum in an accurate and unbiased manner
• Monitor operation of the trains and quickly fix derailments
• Work cooperatively with on-duty staff, including guest services monitor who will also be stationed at the exhibit site
• Watch for guest interference with operations (no touching, climbing, hanging from any structure); report to Holden Arboretum Police if guests do not cooperate
• Fill in log with issues (# of derailments, guest interference, plants that may need assistance) and any other comments at the end of each shift
• Potentially other maintenance-related responsibilities, to be handled on a case-by-case basis and by interest/availability only
• Demonstrate positive guest interaction and model strong customer service
• Additional related tasks as needed

Outcomes/Impact:

• Increases visitor engagement by sharing highlights of the Pollinator Express exhibit
• Connects visitors to the importance of pollinators and the different types of pollinators around the world