As a docent, you will play a key role in helping guests explore the Museum through conversation, interpretation, and storytelling. Whether you are leading scheduled tours or offering insight during open hours, you will help connect visitors to the layered history of Western New York. This is a great opportunity for volunteers who enjoy public speaking, education, and engaging people of all ages.

Help bring history to life for our youngest visitors by facilitating interactive and educational experiences! Whether you’re running a pop-up crafts table, reading a story aloud, or supporting homeschool students with hands-on projects, you’ll help create meaningful, memorable moments for kids and families at the Museum.

Ambassadors serve as friendly, knowledgeable guides who help visitors feel at home. Whether greeting guests inside the Museum, representing us at Canalside, or connecting with the public at community events, ambassadors help extend the Museum’s mission beyond our walls. Whether you’re stationed inside the Museum, at Canalside, or out in the community, you’ll be a go-to guide for sharing what makes TBHM special.

Roaming Ambassador

Help guests navigate the Museum and make the most of their visit. From offering directions and pointing out interactive exhibits to encouraging participation in guest surveys, these volunteers help guests feel confident and curious as they explore.

Tabling Ambassador (Museum Cheerleader)

Take the Museum beyond its walls. At community festivals, partner events, and outreach programs, Tabling Ambassadors share the story of the Museum with new audiences. Through conversations, flyers, and friendly outreach, they invite others to explore what TBHM has to offer and make meaningful first connections on behalf of the Museum.

Membership Ambassador

Membership Ambassadors support the Museum’s growth by sharing the benefits of membership at public programs and events. These volunteers help guests take the next step in their connection to TBHM, turning a single visit into an ongoing relationship rooted in learning and community. This role is perfect for friendly, outgoing volunteers who love connecting with people and talking about what makes TBHM special!

Canalside Ambassador

Bring Buffalo’s waterfront history to life. At our Canalside location, you will welcome visitors to the Waterway of Change exhibit, guide them through interactive touchpoints, and introduce them to the history of the Erie Canal. This is a unique opportunity to engage with tourists and locals alike in a vibrant, public-facing setting.

TBHM Tabling Team

The Tabling Team represents The Buffalo History Museum at festivals, community events, and Museum programs. As a trained Ambassador, you will help share our mission, spark curiosity, and build relationships with new audiences across Western New York. Whether you love education, outreach, or connecting one-on-one, this is a great way to represent the Museum beyond our walls.

Tabling Team members receive specialized training and often take on leadership responsibilities at outreach events.

Special Events volunteers are part of the behind-the-scenes magic that makes our programs shine. From greeting guests and managing check-in to assisting with refreshments and logistics, this role helps create welcoming, well-run events that open the door for meaningful engagement with history.

There are currently no volunteer opportunities available in the Archives or Collections departments. If you are interested in working with Collections, we encourage you to explore our Collections Internship, which offers structured, academic-based experience in that area.

Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds who are enthusiastic about history and committed to creating welcoming, meaningful visitor experiences. This includes those seeking community service hours or professional experience. Applications are accepted throughout the year. Once you apply through our volunteer portal, you’ll be invited to attend an orientation. After orientation and a brief onboarding process, you’ll be able to view available opportunities and manage your schedule online at your convenience.

Yes. For the safety of our guests, staff, and fellow volunteers, all volunteers are required to submit a background check.

Though we love seeing our volunteers often, there is no minimum time requirement for volunteering. We are happy to have your help when you are available.

Yes! We welcome volunteers who are completing service hours for school, community programs, or personal development. Just let us know your requirements when you reach out or apply, and we’ll do our best to support your goals. We do ask that service hour volunteers complete our regular onboarding process, including orientation and scheduling, so we can ensure a smooth experience for everyone involved. Our Volunteer Coordinator is happy to help track and confirm your hours.

We’re also open to coordinating group service projects for student groups, clubs, or community organizations. These projects are a great way to support the Museum while giving back. However, they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis and depend on staff availability and project needs. If you’re interested in setting up a service project, please reach out early so we can see what’s possible.

Don’t see a role that works for you? No problem. Just because it’s not listed doesn’t mean it’s not possible. We know that every volunteer brings something different to the table, and we’re happy to get creative.

Our goal is always to find a role that matches your interests, skills, and schedule. Reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator using the contact form below to set up a time to chat. We’ll help find the right fit, so your time here is both impactful and rewarding

Volunteering is more than just helping out. It is a way to connect with your community, support historical storytelling, and enjoy special perks.

Free admission to The Buffalo History Museum

Free general admission access to the Research Library

Discounts

· Receive 10 percent off at the Museum Shop year-round

· Celebrate your birthday with a 25 percent Museum Shop discount

· Get surprise thank-you treats and seasonal perks throughout the year

· Enjoy free admission to ticketed events on the days you volunteer. *

Membership Volunteers who contribute a set number of hours within a calendar year may become eligible to receive a Museum membership! This benefit can be used personally or gifted to someone else.

Additional Perks

· Be among the first to experience new exhibitions through early access opportunities

· Celebrate your impact at volunteer appreciation events and seasonal socials

· Connect with fellow volunteers and museum staff in a welcoming, mission-driven community

· Receive exclusive TBHM merch that shows you are part of the History Herd