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Love the DIA and want to learn more?
Join the museum family.
It's a wonderful chance to become an art aficionado, meet new and interesting friends, and experience the excitement of being part of one of the greatest art museums in the United States.
The DIA's Volunteer Council is a group of more than 700 individuals who donate their time to provide a great experience for museum visitors, and to extend the DIA's presence beyond our walls. The Volunteer Council consists of six different committees which include Gallery Service, Gallery Information, Museum Shop, DFT Ushers, Staff Aides, and Interpretive Programs Volunteers (IPV). See available volunteer opportunities by committee
Volunteers serve in a variety of roles within the museum such as assisting visitors in the galleries, staffing the information desks, ushering in the Detroit Film Theatre, providing tours to adults and school children, lecturing about the museum's collection to both adult and school groups in the community, and supporting staff in various museum departments.
There are two application periods for volunteers interested in committees other than Interpretive Programs:
January 1 - March 31
and
August 1 - October 31
Our online application will only be accepted and available during these open application periods. Requirements for volunteers include willingness to provide excellent service to DIA patrons, enthusiasm, and love of art. An active DIA membership at any level is also required. Volunteering is open to anyone 18 and older.
Flexible schedules are available on weekdays, weekends, and Friday evenings. Our greatest need is for volunteers willing to assist on Tuesdays, Friday nights and weekends. To learn more, contact the Volunteer Services Department at 313-494-5221 Tuesday – Sunday.
- Interpretive Programs Volunteers
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There are no trainings scheduled for Interpretive Programs Volunteers (formerly known as Docents) for the 2012/2013 year. Please check back for updates regarding future opportunities.
- Gallery Information
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Become the friendly face of the DIA as you welcome and assist visitors at the information desks. Gallery Information volunteers give directions, answer general questions about the museum's collections, provide news about museum activities, and assist visitors.
Requirements
- Two hour training session plus on the job training
- Ability or willingness to work with a computer
- One 3 ½ hour shift weekly or one 4 hour shift every other weekend. Commitment to working a specific day.
- Committee meetings and enrichments
- Gallery Service
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Surround yourself with art and help visitors at the same time. Gallery Service volunteers maintain a presence in the galleries and serve as hosts, greeting and assisting visitors in their assigned areas. Gallery Service volunteers do not lecture about the museum's collection.
Requirements
- Two hour training plus on the job training
- Ability to circulate throughout galleries for 3-3 ½ hours
- One shift per month (3 ½ – 4 hours)
- Committee meetings and enrichments as scheduled
- Museum Shop
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If you like art and you like shopping, this is the place for you. The museum shop gives visitors the chance to take home a memory of their museum visit and earns important revenue for museum operations. Volunteers assist staff in restocking and helping visitors select purchases from a variety of merchandise including books, posters, jewelry, and art-related gift items.
Requirements
- On-the-job training in sales and shop operation
- One 3 ½ – 4 hour shift per month
- Committee meetings and enrichments as scheduled
- DFT Ushers
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We welcome and assist patrons in the DIA auditorium, give directions, answer questions, and seat patrons. The Detroit Film Theatre operates on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Most of the shows are in the evening. Volunteers may also be asked to help for other special programs in the auditorium. Help is particularly needed for the late shows and both shows on Saturdays.
Requirements
- One hour training plus on the job training
- Ability to be on your feet for one hour prior to the start of the performance
- Dress code of black pants/skirt and a white or light colored shirt
- One show per month
- Celebrating 50 Years of Volunteer Service
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