Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers of all ages and abilities are involved at Vesterheim, and new volunteers are always welcome. Vesterheim has over 40 trained volunteer guides; 30 people on the mail crew; many skilled folk artists who demonstrate at various events; and hundreds of behind-the-scenes assistants who help with carpentry, gardening, cleaning, painting, sewing, data entry, office and library work, translating, transportation, food preparation, and hosting. Youth volunteers often help in various ways at special events.
"Volunteer support is essential to Vesterheim," says Martha Griesheimer, Vesterheim’s volunteer coordinator, "and we couldn’t offer such a wide range of programs without the assistance of all those who are willing to share their time and abilities."
Vesterheim holds infinite potential for exploration and lifelong learning. An annual series of enrichment programs offers opportunities for both current and prospective volunteers to become more familiar with Vesterheim’s collections, staff and mission. Through presentations and behind-the-scenes tours with Vesterheim staff, volunteers can learn more about Vesterheim’s history and collections. The series also includes lectures by guest speakers so that volunteers can learn more about Norwegian-American history and culture in general. All programs are free and the public is welcome to come to any and all of them.
Volunteer enrichment programming takes place throughout
the calendar year. Updates are continually posted as information becomes available. Inquire about volunteering at Vesterheim by contacting Martha