Support Volunteer

Do you love jazz? Have you been looking for a volunteer opportunity that involves more than stuffing envelopes? Would you like a flexible volunteer schedule? At the Louis Armstrong House Museum & Archives you can start training as a volunteer today. Interact with visitors from all over the world and work with other dedicated staff members. Volunteers are the heart of our organization and assist in many ways.

During COVID-19, our tour guides have continued to meet regularly with one another and House Museum staff in order to sustain community. Find out more about how you can join us below.

REAL AMBASSADORS DOCENT PROGRAM

The Louis Armstrong House Museum offers a Docent Training program that will expose participants to the exciting history of Louis Armstrong, jazz music, and twentieth century arts & culture, while discovering the place of this legacy in the context of New York City. It is addressed to early career historians, jazz enthusiasts, teaching artists, educators, and retired educators who would like to experience meaningful interactions or gain experience in the museum field and its diverse audiences. The group will have a chance to learn from seasoned Museum Staff, Educators, and recognized speakers in Jazz scholarship.

This 10-month program runs from July 2024 to May 2025 with a two-week break in December. Up to four (4) applicants will be selected to join the 2024-2025 cohort. The program will offer a letter of completion to each participant that has met the minimum requirements. 

Requirements:

  • Docents must commit to volunteer at least 2 museum days per month on a 10am-4pm schedule between Wednesday-Saturday. 
  • Docents should be able to attend at least 4 of 7 lectures/field trips offered throughout the program.
  • Docents should have a demonstrated ability to adapt to the changing life of the museum and work in harmony with others. 

How to Apply

To apply, please send a letter of interest (approximately 400 words) and fill out the application form. Application deadline has been extended to Monday, July 8th!

Perks:

  • A collective learning experience in the jazz field. 
  • Invitation to performances and recognized Arts organizations events.
  • Complimentary admission to over 100 museums in NYC. 
  • A Docent Appreciation celebration. 

Core Values:

  • Docents are expected to meet the organization values of excellence and community. 
  • Docents should demonstrate an ability to solve conflict through healthy communication that is direct, respectful, and cordial. 
  • Docents contribute to a collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • The museum welcomes diversity and a safe environment for all. 

Important Dates:

Important Dates 2024:

June 25 | Information Session (Open to the Public.) Register here to receive the meeting link.

July 8 | Application Deadline.

July 15 | Selected applicants announced.

July 25 | Program begins. Orientation meeting. Scheduled distributed.

August 1 – 3 | Docent Training on designated scheduled day (once a week for two weeks).