Why Volunteer at Wolf Trap
April 4, 2025 | Wolf Trap Volunteers
Each year, thousands of arts supporters unite to fuel Wolf Trap’s programs through membership contributions. Many members make an even deeper commitment, making an impact at Wolf Trap by volunteering their time, too!
Why Our Members Volunteer
There are a variety of reasons why people choose to share their time with Wolf Trap, but the place itself is noted by volunteers as a big motivator. Kathleen Kelmelis volunteers because she enjoys “interacting with visitors coming to see a show and learning more about this wonderful venue from the inside out.”
Each volunteer has a unique personal connection to Wolf Trap that has inspired them to engage more with the organization. Many volunteers have served for five, ten, twenty years or longer because of how important Wolf Trap’s mission is to them. For Kathleen, volunteering is about giving back to an organization that has provided her family with joy and memories for more than 40 years. Long-time supporter Mary King adds that making friends with other volunteers and staff is her favorite part.
For Julie Dunlap, volunteering across several areas of the Foundation became a way to support Wolf Trap’s mission through more than just donating money. She has enjoyed seeing first-hand “the many ways Wolf Trap fulfills its performing arts mission.”
A Range of Volunteer Opportunities
Wolf Trap Foundation volunteers provide valuable services while forging friendships and enjoying special benefits. Members at any level can volunteer to represent Wolf Trap year-round with flexible opportunities in the Filene Center Gift Shop, Filene Center Concessions, Hospitality, and more! In her role as a greeter/guide before Filene Center performances, Kathleen has found joy in helping people find their way around the park and filling them in on the new services available at Wolf Trap.”
Perks of Volunteering
Foundation volunteers receive unique benefits in recognition of the key roles they play throughout the year, like free entry to select Wolf Trap shows and behind-the-scenes access to Wolf Trap operations. Members like Kathleen and Mary love listening to their favorite artists while volunteering, such as Alison Krauss, Ringo Starr, Australian Pink Floyd, and others. Other volunteers, like Julie, enjoy discovering new music through volunteering.
Perhaps the best perk of all is the time spent with the people of the Wolf Trap family. Some of our dedicated members have volunteered for Wolf Trap for over 30 years and have formed lasting friendships.
In her first year of volunteering, Julie especially enjoyed meeting a “great group of people.” To celebrate our volunteers for all they do and give them opportunities to socialize with one another, Wolf Trap hosts several events throughout the year, including a Volunteer Orientation, Summer Social, and Appreciation Dinner.
Sign Me Up!
All active Wolf Trap members 18 years or older are eligible to volunteer. To do so, you must be able to commit to a certain number of shifts per summer (for gift shop and hospitality only) and to work under the supervision of Wolf Trap Foundation staff, as well as complete a background check and other training requirements.
Interested? Read more about the volunteer program and apply to serve on wolftrap.org. If you have any questions about volunteering at Wolf Trap, please call 703.255.1927 or email volunteer@wolftrap.org.
If you’d like to usher at the Filene Center, be a nature guide, or help with patron services, the National Park Service offers a separate volunteer program.