Since its inception, PARI has relied heavily on volunteers to accomplish the myriad tasks associated with operating a large science education and research center. 

Volunteers serve our mission in two ways.  First, by involving volunteers we extend our outreach to the public beyond the realm of researchers and educational institutions.  The current volunteer roster at PARI includes several dozen people: amateur astronomers, engineers, retired business people, physicians, computer enthusiasts, teachers, students and others from all walks of life.

Secondly, volunteers help get the work done.  Volunteers have the opportunity to work on-site and learn from their involvement: building and running computers, installing and updating computer software, cataloging astronomical plates, maintaining exhibits and displays, helping with educational program preparation and performing the scores of other tasks necessary to maintain the campus and support our programs.

We frequently need local helpers during the week to help with answering the phone, mailings, proof reading, cataloging library books, organizing files and other activities.

Friends of PARI docent-led two-hour tours give visitors a detailed orientation to PARI.  Training to become a docent is a great way to learn about the site’s history and become involved with PARI’s ongoing operation.

PARI holds an annual Space Day open house which brings hundreds of people to the campus for a full day of programs and activities.  Volunteers help host this public event and assist staff members with a host of activities.

Some educational programs require more supervision than others.  Volunteers often give staff the extra pair of eyes and hands to keep every student involved.

Some volunteers help every week, while others are only available a couple of times a year.  All levels of  help are welcome and appreciated.

Anyone interested in becoming a PARI volunteer should contact Christi Whitworth at (828)877-6348 or cwhitworth@pari.edu.