Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer at the REACH Museum
Help Share the Stories of the Columbia River Basin
The REACH Museum depends on passionate volunteers who help bring the science, history, and culture of the Columbia River Basin to life.
Whether welcoming visitors, supporting hands-on education programs, or helping care for our native landscape, volunteers play a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for thousands of visitors each year.
If you enjoy learning, sharing knowledge, and connecting people to the incredible story of this region, volunteering at the REACH Museum can be a rewarding way to give back to the Tri-Cities community.
Volunteer opportunities are currently focused in three key areas:
Museum Docents (Guides)
Education Program Support
Native Landscape & Grounds Support
How to Apply
If you’re interested in volunteering, we’d love to hear from you.
Step 1: Complete the volunteer application
Step 2: Our team will follow up to discuss opportunities and scheduling
Why Volunteer at the REACH Museum?
Volunteering here is more than helping a museum operate. It’s about helping people understand the landscape that shaped the Pacific Northwest.
As a volunteer, you will:
Help visitors explore the Ice Age Floods, Columbia River, and Hanford history
Support hands-on STEAM education programs for families and students
Meet others who share an interest in science, nature, and regional history
Become part of a community dedicated to lifelong learning
Many of our volunteers tell us the same thing: they came to help — but stayed because they discovered how much there is to learn about the Columbia Basin.
Current Volunteer opportunities
Museum Docent
(Exhibit Guide)
Docents help visitors explore the stories inside the museum.
This role is ideal for people who enjoy history, science, storytelling, and engaging with the public.
Docents:
Welcome and orient visitors to the museum
Share stories about the Ice Age Floods, Hanford history, and regional ecology
Answer questions and guide conversations inside exhibits
Help visitors connect local science and history to everyday life
No prior museum experience is required. Training and resources are provided.
Best for:
Curious learners, educators, retirees, students, and anyone who enjoys talking with people.
Education & Program Support
Education volunteers help our team deliver engaging learning experiences for families, students, and community groups.
This role may include:
Assisting with hands-on STEAM activities
Supporting school field trips
Helping facilitate workshops, science demonstrations, and family programs
Assisting with educational events like Earth Day, STEM programs, and museum activities
This is a great opportunity for those who enjoy working with children, families, and curious learners.
Best for:
Future educators, college students, science enthusiasts, and community volunteers.
Native Landscape & Grounds Support
The REACH Museum sits within the unique shrub-steppe ecosystem of the Columbia Basin.
Volunteers help maintain the native plant areas surrounding the museum.
Activities may include:
Assisting with native plant garden maintenance
Supporting habitat stewardship
Helping maintain walking paths and outdoor interpretive areas
Contributing to seasonal landscape projects
No gardening experience is required — just a willingness to work outdoors and learn about local ecosystems.
Best for:
Nature lovers, gardeners, and anyone who enjoys spending time outside.
Who Makes a Great REACH Volunteer?
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds.
Great volunteers typically share a few qualities:
- Curiosity about science, history, or the natural world
- Enjoyment working with people
- Reliability and a willingness to learn
- Interest in supporting education and community learning
Many of our volunteers include:
- Retired professionals
- Teachers and educators
- College students
- Science and history enthusiasts
- Community members looking to give back
Volunteer Requirements
Requirements may vary depending on the role, but generally include:
- Completion of a volunteer application
- Orientation or training depending on position
- Ability to commit to scheduled volunteer shifts
Our team will work with you to match your interests and availability with the museum’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need museum experience to volunteer?
No. Training and guidance are provided.
How much time do volunteers commit?
Volunteer schedules are flexible and depend on the role and availability.
Where is the REACH Museum located?
The REACH Museum is located in Richland, Washington, along the Columbia River within Columbia Park West.
Join Our Volunteer Community
Every volunteer helps visitors better understand the science, history, and landscape that shaped the Columbia Basin.
If you enjoy learning, sharing knowledge, and connecting people with the stories of this region, we invite you to join the REACH Museum volunteer community.
Apply today and help bring the Columbia Basin’s story to life.