We'd love to have you aboard!

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 600 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). 

Volunteers serve in a variety of roles within the museum such as assisting visitors in the galleries, staffing information desks, ushering in the Detroit Film Theatre, supporting staff in the Museum Shop and other departments, providing museum tours, and representing the DIA in the community.

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.  Submission of an application does not guarantee a volunteer position.

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 or email diavol@dia.org.

Available Volunteer Opportunity by Committee

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

  • Attendance at Volunteer Welcome Seminar following acceptance of application
  • Two hour training session plus on the job training
  • Ability or willingness to work with a computer
  • One 3 ½ – 4 hour shift per month
  • Committee meetings as scheduled
  • Annual committee dues

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

  • Attendance at Volunteer Welcome Seminar following acceptance of application
  • Two hour training plus on the job training
  • Ability to circulate throughout galleries for 3-3 ½ hours
  • One 3 ½ – 4 hour shift per month
  • Committee meetings as scheduled
  • Annual committee dues

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

  • Attendance at Volunteer Welcome Seminar following acceptance of application
  • 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
  • Annual committee dues

Interpretive Programs Volunteers (IPVs) provide learner-centered tours to DIA visitors in the museum and outreach programs in the community. The next training class for IPVs (formerly known as Docents) is scheduled to begin September 2017 and continue through June 2018. Please click here for an IPV application with details regarding the interview process, as well as training and service commitments.