Sanctuary Volunteer Program

The Sanctuary’s goals and objectives cannot be realized without volunteer support.  Current volunteers are members of the community including residents and visitors, students and senior citizens.  They come from many different backgrounds and bring a variety of skills and talents to the Sanctuary.  Dedicated volunteers are one of the Sanctuary’s greatest assets.


Volunteer Program Goals

Provide volunteers with meaningful experiences related to the conservation of humpback whales.

Provide volunteers with opportunities to learn more about Hawai‘i’s marine wildlife and cultural resources.

Provide appropriate recognition for volunteers through appreciation events and awards.


Benefits

Volunteering for the National Marine Sanctuary is a great way to interact with the public by teaching visitors and residents about the marine environment while helping to protect the Hawaiian population of humpback whales and their habitat. The sanctuary appreciates its volunteers and provides special perks and opportunities to volunteers when possible.


Volunteer Opportunities by Island

Maui
Kaua`i
O`ahu
Hawai`i


Sanctuary Volunteer of the Year Recipients
Read more about top sanctuary volunteers and the special recognition the volunteer of the year receives at Capitol Hill Oceans Week.

Messages from Sanctuary Volunteers

"As sanctuary volunteers for over ten years, we take great pride in doing the whale count and never tire of it. It's a fantastic program that keeps track of our beloved humpbacks and we're fortunate to meet beautiful people each year at our site. We also enjoy being involved in other sanctuary outreach programs such as boater education." - Robert & Barbara Billand, Waianae, O`ahu


"The ocean counters and the whales attract a lot of attention from passersby and beach-goers at Poipu Beach Park, and it’s a prime spot for whale education.  For some of us who have found a new calling since retiring, the gratification from sharing with the public what we have learned from whale researchers and sanctuary staff is tremendous.  What better place to teach about whales and caring for the ocean than right here, right now." - Bruce Parsil, Kalaheo, Kaua`i




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