Volunteer Team Member Spotlight: Annual Recognition Award Winners

How do VTMs make an impact on MIM’s guests?

“Many guests say they came to MIM due to recommendations from friends and family who visited and left with a wonderful experience due to their interactions with MIM volunteers. A common comment is how friendly and outgoing our volunteers are and how they extend themselves to ensure that our guests have a memorable time.”

What do you find fulfilling about volunteering at MIM?

“I find every shift at MIM to be extremely fulfilling. No matter which placement I have chosen on any particular day, I learn something new and get to share my knowledge. I love interacting and having great conversations with guests, whether it’s about an exhibit or about their hometown.”

How does volunteering at MIM enrich your life?

“I’m extremely passionate about volunteering at MIM. I love the fact that I can continue to grow and learn. I like to be challenged, and I have found that being a VTM allows me to take on new responsibilities. Recently, I’ve taken on mentoring of new museum guides, which furthers my ability to make an impact.”

What do you find most rewarding about volunteering at MIM?

“Watching students become interested in and excited about music, culture, and history is very rewarding. For many of them, their short time at MIM will have a lasting impact. At MIM, I am surrounded by interesting, positive, and supportive people.”

What do you most enjoy about volunteering at MIM?

Gary:
“My favorite part of volunteering is the interaction with guests, especially the kids on the tours—watching their faces light up when we explain vibrations on the gong and seeing their enjoyment in the Experience Gallery.”

Karen:
“I love it when people are pleasantly shocked by the size and scope of MIM. Most people are so impressed by the beauty and depth of our exhibits, and it makes me proud to help them explore and learn.”

How do VTMs make an impact on MIM’s guests?

“Many guests say they came to MIM due to recommendations from friends and family who visited and left with a wonderful experience due to their interactions with MIM volunteers. A common comment is how friendly and outgoing our volunteers are and how they extend themselves to ensure that our guests have a memorable time.”

What is special about connecting with guests in the store?

“Generally, guests come into the Museum Store at the end of their visit and they’re energized and excited about what they’ve seen and experienced. I truly feel that it is an honor to be part of their day, and I try to make their visit as wonderful as possible. That often means helping them select something in the store to take home with them—a remembrance of their day.”

What advice would you give to new VTMs to make the most of their experience at MIM?

“Learning should be lifelong—take advantage of your time at MIM. Attend presentations, study exhibits, and, above all, listen to other VTMs. I am constantly amazed at how knowledgeable they are.”

What do you love about working with VTMs?

“Working with our VTMs is an honor! This is an incredible group of people who are erudite, accomplished, informed, and active. Their dedication to learning and service enriches MIM’s programs and strengthens the sense of community that defines MIM.”