MEDIA CONTACT:
Sally Anne Giedrys
Communications Manager
sgiedrys@ecotarium.org
(508) 929-2738
(WORCESTER, MA)&emdash; EcoTarium's Loring Summer Discovery Camp traces its roots to the Natural History Camp for Boys, the first natural history summer camp of its kind, founded on the shores of Worcester's Lake Quinsigamond in 1885. Back then, this camp broke new ground offering "instruction in the study of nature" for about 50 boys ages 10-20. Today, the Loring Summer Discovery Camp continues this tradition by providing environmental adventures for nearly 200 boys and girls ages 7 to 12&emdash; as well as volunteer and work opportunities for teens 13-18.
Leaders-in-Training, ages 13-15, learn firsthand what it means to be a naturalist through formal training and applied teaching. They learn about the environment while developing characteristics such as leadership and responsibility as well as gaining transferable job skills. For many, the leaders-in-training program provides ideal preparation for future jobs as paid camp counselors. Space is limited. Tuition: $230, $205 EcoTarium members.
The Counselors-in-Training program, introduced this year, offers a great opportunity for aspiring teen teachers to earn community service hours for their school while gaining valuable career experience in environmental education and working with children. Working directly with campers and under the supervision of a mentor counselor, older teens are trained to make learning fun and effective for children. Space is limited. This is a volunteer opportunity; no tuition is required.
A minimum two-week commitment and attendance at a three-day training session are required for Leaders-in-Training and Counselors-in-Training. Teens may call (508) 929-2820 or e-mail info@ecotarium.org for information. Applications may also be downloaded from the museum web site at www.ecotarium.org.
EcoTarium is an indoor-outdoor museum dedicated to exploring the natural world. The museum offers three floors of interactive exhibits, wildlife habitats, interpretive nature trails, ponds, an award-winning meadow, a planetarium, and a narrow-gauge railroad. The museum, located at 222 Harrington Way in Worcester, Mass., is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays 12 to 5 p.m. Open selected Monday holidays and Mondays during school vacation weeks. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for seniors, college students and children ages 3-18. Free parking is available. For information, please call (508) 929-2700 or email info@ecotarium.org.