Sign up now for March orientation

HOPEWELL TOWNSHIP, N.J. — The Mercer County Wildlife Center, which accepted and treated more than 3,100 birds, mammals and reptiles in 2019, will be holding orientations for new volunteers at the facility in Hopewell Township. New animals are constantly arriving. Volunteer orientation sessions for 2020 are scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 14, and 10 a.m. to noon Sunday, March 22, at the Wildlife Center. Those who are interested are required to attend only one of the two sessions for this unique opportunity. Pre-registration is required. Walk-ins will not be accepted.

“This opportunity that the Wildlife Center offers provides both and educational and rewarding experience each year,” said Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes. “College students, veterinarian students, and members from the general public make an impact each year and I encourage anyone who may be interested to volunteer.”

Volunteers must be able to commit to one, four-hour shift, once per week, from May through September. Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age; have a current tetanus vaccine; and are required to attend one orientation session. No other sessions will be offered this year.  Volunteer duties are varied and include enclosure cleaning, diet preparation, laundry and many other behind-the-scenes opportunities.

The Mercer County Wildlife Center is owned by the County of Mercer and operated by the Mercer County Park Commission. The center is located on Route 29 in Hopewell Township, approximately 12 miles north of Trenton. To register for either orientation session, or for more information, contact Volunteer Coordinator Jane Rakos-Yates at jrakosyates@mercercounty.org or (609) 303-0552, ext. 103.

For more information about the Mercer County Wildlife Center or other facilities within the Mercer County Park Commission, visit www.mercercountyparks.org.