Frequently Asked Questions

1. What specific qualifications or experience do I need?

   None. Nearly anyone can volunteer. However, please let us know if you have particular skills or experience that may be helpful.

2. What kind of time commitment is required to be a volunteer?

   Volunteers are asked to serve a minimum of 8 hours each month (either one day or two 4-hour shifts). At this level, volunteers maintain their active status, and are eligible for all volunteer benefits. Flexible opportunities are available, and active volunteers can set their own schedules.

3. Is there a minimum age requirement to volunteer?

   Yes. Some opportunities exist for volunteers as young as 14. Age 16 is the preferred minimum age for persons serving in museum operations. To use most types of powered tools or equipment, volunteers must be at least 18.

   NOTE: It is required of minors (under age 18) that their parent or legal guardian cosign a Waiver and Release of Liability document to be provided upon receipt of a satisfactory Volunteer Application Form.

4. Must I agree with the Answers in Genesis Statement of Faith to be a volunteer?

   To participate fully in the volunteer programs of Answers in Genesis, agreement with the Answers in Genesis Statement of Faith is required. If you are not in agreement, but wish to volunteer your services and/or expertise, your request may be considered (contingent on a satisfactory background check and interview, and subject to ministry needs).

5. Is Answers in Genesis associated with any church or denomination?

   No. Answers in Genesis is a non-denominational parachurch ministry. This position is reflected in every outreach of AiG: the Creation Museum, seminars, radio, publishing, etc.

6. Is a background check required?

   For the protection of visitors, volunteers and staff, all volunteer applicants 18 years of age and older must voluntarily authorize a background check. We will cover the cost of the background check, regardless of the outcome; however, we ask that all volunteer applicants advise us in advance of any reason(s) a failed result might be anticipated.

7. Is medical insurance required?

   No. If you have such coverage, our Volunteer Application Form offers the option of indicating your medical insurance company. Should you experience a personal medical emergency, we can provide that information to your emergency contact or to medical personnel.

8. Our church group is considering a mission trip to assist the Creation Museum. Can groups serve as short-term mission volunteers?

   Sometimes, depending on a number of factors. However, individuals (group members or not) serving on a short-term basis are not participating as active volunteers. Thus, the service opportunities, conditions of service, and benefits will differ. Please contact us and we will be happy to discuss the possibilities.

9. Are volunteers expected to adhere to a Dress Code?

   Volunteers represent the Creation Museum and Answers in Genesis (AiG), and are expected to comply with the same dress standards as Creation Museum and AiG staff. Here are a few general appearance guidelines:

   • Clothing should be neat, clean and modest.
   • Except for Creation Museum/AiG logos or approved messages, clothing with pictures, symbols and/or wording should not be worn.
   • Extreme or attention-getting hairstyles, grooming and accessories are not appropriate.

   Volunteers may also be required to comply with basic safety or health standards.

10. Are uniforms provided?

    • A volunteer lanyard will be provided for every volunteer to wear onsite.
    • All volunteers will receive a Creation Museum staff T-shirt (required wear in museum operations; optional elsewhere).
    • Additional uniform pieces will be provided for volunteers serving in certain museum operations positions.

11. Will I receive training?

    Yes. All new volunteers will receive an orientation to the Creation Museum and AiG. Further training will vary, from a brief “how-to” demonstration to several days of on-the-job training (OJT) or shadowing.

12. What benefits are available to volunteers?

    Immediate benefits for active volunteers include:

    • Free individual admission to the Creation Museum with photo ID
    • 10% volunteer discount at all Noah’s Café locations
    • 40% volunteer discount in the Dragon’s Hall book store
    • Opportunities to participate in special social and educational activities
    • Recognition for specific levels of service and achievement
    • Christian fellowship and the joy of serving the Lord through serving others

    Added benefits following a 90-day qualifying period:

    • Creation Museum Staff Pass
      • receive free admission for volunteer and immediate family
      • receive staff discount on admission tickets (up to 6 per day)
    • Staff Meal Card (optional stored-value card)
      • receive 25% discount at all Noah’s Café locations

13. I’d like for volunteering to be part of my career development plan. Can you help?

    Yes. Employers see a history of volunteer service as a positive asset. Our system will make it easy to thoroughly document your service for current or prospective employers. Through volunteering, you can refresh, update or enhance marketable skills. Also, you might wish to try out new experiences if you are contemplating a career transition.

14. Volunteers often make great employees. I’ve heard that volunteering could help me get a paid position. As a volunteer, will I be considered for staff openings?

    Not necessarily. We do have some former volunteers who are now paid staff members, and volunteers are welcome to submit an employment application or resume at any time. However, the Volunteer Program and the Human Resources Department function independently. The recruiting and hiring of staff is the responsibility of HR, and volunteers seeking employment are expected to adhere to our standard process.

15. I’d like to be an active volunteer, but cannot come to the Creation Museum each month—are there offsite opportunities?

    A limited number of offsite opportunities may be available at any particular time. Some can be handled strictly from home; others might require occasional trips to the museum (or perhaps to a shipping location).

16. Do you provide accommodations for volunteers visiting from outside the local area?

    We do not provide offsite accommodations. Onsite accommodations are limited. Requests for use of these accommodations will be handled on a case-by-case basis, and are subject to both availability and ministry needs. Contact Kirk Rice, Volunteer Programs Administrator, at 1-888-582-4253 ext. 268 for more information.

17. Do you provide transportation to/from the museum?

    Volunteers must provide their own transportation.

18. Are reimbursements for fuel or other expenses provided?

    No. However, certain out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a volunteer may be tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor for specific tax advice.

19. Is the time I give as an AiG/Creation Museum volunteer tax deductible?

    You cannot deduct the value of volunteered time or services; however, the IRS will generally allow you to deduct out-of-pocket expenses incurred as a volunteer, such as travel costs.

    Disclaimer: Please consult your tax advisor for specific tax advice.

20. What is VicNet?

    VicNet is the online Volunteer Information Center Network. It is designed to permit user-friendly interaction between volunteers and staff coordinators. Volunteers will receive a user name and password to access the system.

21. Can I still be a volunteer if I do not have a computer or Internet access?

    Yes. You will be able to coordinate and plan by telephone, during business hours. You may also request a username and password that will enable you to access the VicNet system from any computer with internet access (e.g., at a public library).

Additional questions about volunteering?

Contact Kirk Rice, Volunteer Programs Administrator.
Phone: 888-582-4253 ext. 268