Overview
Most volunteer programs put kids on the sidelines. This one puts them to work. The New York Marine Rescue Center — the nonprofit resident of the Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead — manages all volunteer activity across the campus, which means when your child volunteers here, they're operating inside an active rescue and rehabilitation facility. The animals they're helping with are actual patients.
Ways to Engage
- Education Docent (Ages 16+) — The primary role for teens who want to work directly with the public. Docents rotate through aquarium exhibits and the Rescue Education Center, teaching visitors about marine life and conservation. A front-facing role that builds real communication skills alongside the science.
- Junior Volunteer Program (Ages 12–15) — A mentored track for younger students. A parent or legal guardian must be present and volunteering alongside their child at all times — and both must complete orientation together. A genuinely rare setup: parent and child doing meaningful conservation work side by side.
- Cold Stun Patrolling (Seasonal, September–January) — Volunteers walk north-facing Long Island beaches searching for hypothermic sea turtles. Seasonal, specific, and the kind of fieldwork most kids never get near.
- Rescue Team (Ages 18+) — For older volunteers ready for field response. Requires completing FEMA ICS 100 and 200 training before participating in animal releases or rescue events.
- Water Quality Team — Assists in monitoring and maintaining water standards for animals in the rescue center.
- Additional Roles — The volunteer portal also lists opportunities in fundraising, office support, lecturing, and seal cruise assistance.
What the Commitment Looks Like
Volunteers are expected to complete a monthly virtual orientation before their first shift. Once active, the general expectation is a minimum of two shifts per month (8 hours total) sustained over at least six months. That's a real commitment — and worth knowing before you apply.
Who It's For
The child who wants more than a field trip. This is a strong fit for a kid who is genuinely curious about marine biology or environmental science and ready to show up consistently — not just once. The Junior Volunteer program is also one of the few meaningful volunteer experiences available to kids as young as 12, and the parent-alongside requirement makes it unusually accessible for families who want to do this kind of work together.
Application & Eligibility
Applications are submitted through the NYMRC's volunteer portal at nymarinerescue.org. Monthly virtual orientations are available after your application is accepted — both the student and supervising adult must attend for the Junior Volunteer track.
Cost & Information
All volunteer roles are free. The Junior Volunteer Program requires a one-time $50 registration donation, which covers a one-year NYMRC membership and administrative costs.
Perks for Active Volunteers
Free admission to the Long Island Aquarium on shift days; one free meal per shift (4-hour minimum); two guest passes to the aquarium for every six months of continuous service.