The Teen Academic Volunteer Program at Zoo Miami is designed to create an environment that encourages teens to become stewards of the natural world and develop professional skills. The program is centered around fostering self-esteem and providing opportunities for teamwork and problem-solving. This is achieved through assignments that involve working closely with zoo staff and engaging guests at various service positions, including Safari Cycles, and Giraffe and Parrot Feeding stations. Participants in the program must be at least 14 years old and currently enrolled in high school. The commitment to the program is a maximum of one year from the orientation date, with at least one seven hour volunteer shift every 60 days. Students must also complete a minimum of 70 hours within 12 months to receive a certificate of completion. Volunteering is expected to be done on days that do not conflict with school schedules, such as weekends, holidays, summer, winter and spring breaks, as well as during night events. The program is a yearly commitment and requires participants to volunteer for 15 days over the summer and two days per month during the school year. Applications for the program open in early spring and are due at the end of April. This is a highly competitive program, with only a select number of applicants accepted each year. By participating in the program, teens will gain foundational knowledge in providing customer service and professional skills, and contribute to building an eco-conscious community in Miami-Dade. They will also have opportunities to develop a lifelong appreciation for animals, gain experience providing world-class guest service, and begin to build a professional network. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate of completion.