Celebrating Our Volunteers Who Bring Science to Life

At The Lawrence Hall of Science, moments of discovery don’t just happen—they are made possible by people who choose to show up, guide, and inspire. Every day, volunteers stand beside visitors, ready to answer a question, spark an idea, or help someone see science in a whole new way.

This April, as part of Volunteer Appreciation Month, The Lawrence is proudly celebrating the volunteers who bring these moments to life.

From guiding visitors through the Animal Discovery Zone and Outdoor Nature Lab to supporting activities in Hands-on Biotech, Future of Food, and the Planetarium, volunteers are woven into nearly every part of the Lawrence experience. They help visitors dive deeper into exhibits, feel more confident trying something new, and leave with a stronger sense of curiosity than when they arrived.

“Volunteers play a key role in bringing The Lawrence Hall of Science mission to life,” said Reyna Hamilton, Director of Program Leadership & Impact. “They create welcoming, engaging experiences and help visitors connect with science in meaningful ways.

Today, The Lawrence’s volunteer community includes 45 adult volunteers and 144 youth volunteers, representing a wide range of backgrounds—from high school students exploring future career paths to retired professionals eager to share their time and expertise. Together, they have contributed more than 55,000 hours of service since 2010. This extraordinary investment of time, care, and commitment that has touched countless lives.

Their support extends the reach of Lawrence programs while keeping interactions personal, curious, and fun. Their impact is felt in both big and small moments.

For many volunteers, the most rewarding part of the experience is witnessing the moment curiosity clicks.

“I enjoy helping visitors do the marble machine,” one volunteer shared. “They have so much fun doing it and learn lots of ways to make their ideas come to life.” 

Another reflected on the joy of seeing entire families engage together: “Often, I will work at an activity, and the kids, their parents, and their grandparents are having fun. Three generations of a family all having fun learning science together.”

Others remember the spontaneous moments that reveal just how powerful science exploration can be.

“My favorite moment was the day two separate groups of kids ran up to me in the Outdoor Nature Lab to show me the salamanders they caught,” one volunteer recalled. “It really highlighted the wonder of science and how people can engage with the natural world in different ways.”

While volunteers make a lasting impact on visitors, many say the experience changes them as well. One volunteer said their time at The Lawrence helped them rethink how learning happens. 

“It helped me realize that there are so many ways to teach science, and that it really depends on who you’re teaching it to,” they shared. “The same love for science can be taught in high-energy, active ways, and also in quiet, information-focused ways as well.”

Beyond building practical skills, Hamilton says the goal is that volunteers leave with something deeper.

“We hope volunteers leave feeling inspired and proud of their contribution,” she said. “They see the direct impact they have on sparking curiosity and helping young people enjoy science. Most of all, we hope they walk away with a deeper appreciation for science, a stronger sense of purpose, and the knowledge that they helped create meaningful learning experiences for others.”

For some, that connection lasts for years. Dedicated volunteers like Mary Thompson, Susan Grossman, and Deborah Wang have each given more than a decade of service, contributing thousands of hours to The Lawrence community. 

Youth volunteers also make a lasting impression. Finn Zijlstra, a high school volunteer in the Animal Discovery Zone, is known as one of the exhibit’s friendliest faces and is consistently praised for his enthusiasm and welcoming energy.

To celebrate this incredible community, The Lawrence will host a Volunteer Appreciation event on Sunday, April 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors and staff are also encouraged to take part in a simple but powerful way: say thank you! A kind word or moment of recognition can mean more than you might expect.

At The Lawrence, every moment of curiosity begins with a spark. Volunteers are integral to kindling that spark of curiosity for scientists of all ages. Reflecting on the impact volunteers have across the organization, Hamilton offered a message of gratitude directly to those who make that work possible:

“Your time, energy, and care make a real difference every day,” Hamilton said. “Because of you, visitors feel welcomed, students stay curious, and science comes to life in meaningful ways. Your dedication truly powers our mission.”

This Volunteer Appreciation Month, The Lawrence is proud to celebrate the community members whose generosity, enthusiasm, and dedication help make science feel welcoming for all!