Since 1867, Volunteers have contributed to the operations of the Western Reserve Historical Society. On average and in just one year, 500 volunteers contribute 17,000 hours of time, by sharing their stories, knowledge and skills.
Volunteers at WRHS love history!
You too can join the long-time legacy of volunteerism at WRHS and become a part of our history.
The Western Reserve Historical Society welcomes volunteers at Hale Farm & Village, the Cleveland History Center and the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum in a variety of roles, including guest services, special event support, education and public programming, and more!
Current Opportunities
Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum Ambassador
The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum is seeking volunteers. Our volunteers get hands on experience with prized pieces of the Crawford collection when they volunteer their time with the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum. Ever wanted to get your hands dirty at the preservation/restoration facility in Macedonia or work with the Crawford Team and other volunteers to complete other new and exciting projects at the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum at the Cleveland History Center? Just want to spend time in the museum sharing your passion with other guests? This is your opportunity.
- Must fill out a volunteer application and pass a background check
- Light automotive experience preferred.
Interested applicants should contact volunteering to begin the volunteer application process or click here to complete and online volunteer form.
The Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum is seeking outgoing enthusiasts for a variety of volunteer opportunities. Our volunteers help keep our wheels turning, and provide our visitors with a better museum-going experience.
Docents
Our docents help provide interpretation of our galleries and artifacts, giving visitors additional context and a more informative experience.
- Enthusiasm necessary
- Automotive knowledge encouraged, but not required
- Must be good with people
Wrenches
The Crawford Preservation Facility volunteers meet weekly to work on the 200-item collection of automobiles, motorcycles, and aircraft. This project runs the gamut from from polishing brass to re-building engines, and everything in between.
- Enthusiasm necessary
- Prior automotive restoration work desired
- Knowledge of advanced motoring systems a plus
Sewing Volunteers
Volunteers needed to assist with the sewing of historically-themed costumes to be used in Education Department School Programming. Project will likely span several months at the least; volunteers will work approximately 2-5 hours per week and are welcome to work from home. WRHS will provide patterns and materials. Volunteer must have a sewing machine and enthusiasm for history. Opportunities available to assist with pattern/fabric research as well, if volunteer is interested.
Special Event Volunteers Hale Farm & Village
Volunteers needed to assist at Hale Farm & Village during special event weekends. Placement may include admissions, café and MarketPlace. Volunteers must have enthusiasm for working with people of all ages and backgrounds. In addition the they should be observant, tactful, tolerant, honest, energetic and have a positive attitude at all times. Interested volunteer applicants should contact volunteering to begin the application process.
Education Volunteers Hale Farm & Village
Are you a storyteller, teacher or actor? Do you like cooking, art or making things? If history is your passion and you’re looking for a place to share it, we have a spot for you! Join with the Hale Farm & Village program staff to create the best experiences for our guests. Roles include visitor orientation, teaching, guiding, and working in historic kitchens, gardens and craft areas during day-to-day programs. Great events need great teams! Consider helping during our active calendar of signature events. Roles include parking attendant, admissions, orientation and wayfinding. Interested volunteer applicants should contact volunteering to begin the application process.
Carousel Volunteers
Volunteers needed to assist with the Euclid Beach Carousel as a Carousel Spotter. Volunteers must have enthusiasm for working with people of all ages and backgrounds. In addition the they should be observant, tactful, tolerant, honest, energetic and have a positive attitude at all times. Must be able to stand for long period of time. Interested volunteer applicants should contact volunteering to begin the application process.
Museum Ambassador at Cleveland History Center
Volunteers needed to assist at the Cleveland History Center. Placement may include any museum gallery. Volunteers must have enthusiasm for working with people of all ages and backgrounds. In addition the they should be observant, tactful, tolerant, honest, energetic and have a positive attitude at all times. Interested volunteer applicants should contact volunteering to begin the application process.
Volunteer Levels
Yes! You can commit as much or as little time as you would like. Here’s a generic breakout of volunteering levels at WRHS:
- Long-Term Volunteering
An ongoing commitment for 6 months or more. - Short-Term Volunteering
Volunteer projects with an end date or volunteering on an as needed basis.. - Corporate or Organizational Group Volunteering
For large groups of 15 or more. - Join a Friends Group or Auxiliary of WRHS
Volunteer Benefits
- Yearly recognition events
- Free admission and parking on days of service
- 10% discount in Museum Stores
- Volunteer social and networking opportunities
- Invitations to special events
