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Volunteer

Join Our Thriving Volunteer Community.

Volunteers are the heart of the Martin House. Whether you’re into history, nature, education, or just love helping out, there’s a role for you here.

Current Volunteer Sign In

Volunteer Opportunities

You may be surprised to learn how many ways there are to get involved.

Volunteers lead tours for visitors from all over the world, welcome guests to the site, help select the perfect memento from our Museum Store, beautify our landscape, clean and maintain the historic property, assist with school groups and education programs, and much more.

If one of the below roles sound like a good fit, please reach out to volunteer@martinhouse.org. A team member will contact you to and share more information. Thank you for your interest!

Chaperones/House Captains

If you have a welcoming presence and a talent for staying organized, this role could be a perfect fit for you. As a Chaperone or House Captain, you’ll help ensure tours through the Martin House go off without a hitch. Whether you’re accompanying guests through the home or stationed in key areas, your job is to keep tours flowing, assist with visitor questions, and make sure everyone respects the historic space. Think of it as part host, part hall monitor.

Docent

Do you love history, architecture, and sharing stories with others? As a Docent at the Martin House, you’ll guide visitors through Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic home, offering insight into its design, history, and cultural significance. You’ll need a passion for learning and talking with guests from all over the world, plus a solid memory for details. We offer an 8-week training course to prepare you.

Collections Care Committee

Get an up-close look at the Martin House like few others can. As a member of the Collections Care Committee, you’ll play a vital role in preserving the beauty and integrity of the historic interiors. From gently dusting delicate woodwork and art glass windows to vacuuming and mopping, your hands-on care helps maintain the house’s original charm. It’s a role perfect for detail-oriented folks who love history and don’t mind a little elbow grease.

Landscape Volunteers

Prefer dirt under your nails and sunshine on your back? Our Landscape Volunteers help care for the Martin House’s lush 1.5-acre gardens. You’ll assist with planting, weeding, pruning, and general garden upkeep to help our grounds look their best. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just eager to learn, this role is a great way to “stay close to nature” as Frank Lloyd Wright himself recommended.

Museum Store Volunteers

Love chatting with people and have a knack for retail? Our Museum Store Volunteers help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for visitors looking to bring home a piece of their experience. You’ll assist with operating the register, restocking shelves, tracking inventory, and helping guests find that perfect memento. This role combines customer service with a dash of merchandising.

“Volunteering with the Collections Care Committee has given me the extraordinary opportunity to experience the house as if it were my own. We’re a small crew with access to all the historic structures during times when the site is closed to tours. Watching how the play of light changes through the seasons, shining through beautiful Wright-designed art glass windows. It’s like playing in a jewel box with your best friends. With no experience beyond a desire to volunteer somewhere interesting, I’ve landed in a place that sparks passion for learning and has introduced me to an amazing group of friends.”

— Faye Eichenseer, 8-year volunteer on the Collections Care Committee

Volunteer FAQs

Who is eligible to volunteer, and when can I start?

Anyone aged 18 or older with a positive attitude and an interest in history, architecture, customer service, or preservation is welcome to apply! Once your application is accepted, you can begin as soon as training (if needed) is completed for your chosen role.

Do I have to make a long-term commitment?

We ask volunteers to contribute a minimum of 20 hours per year. Many roles are flexible, and you can sign up for shifts that fit your schedule, including evenings and special events.

Do I need any special skills or experience?

Not necessarily! Enthusiasm, reliability, and a friendly attitude go a long way. Some roles (like Docents) involve more training, but many just require a willingness to help and learn.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

Volunteers become part of a fun and passionate community, get to engage with visitors from around the world, and enjoy special behind-the-scenes experiences. You’ll also receive training, house perks, and invitations to volunteer appreciation events.

Do you offer internships?

Not at this time, but we hope to in the future!

The Volunteer Spirit

We couldn’t do what we do without this committed group of talented people.

Play Video See Our Volunteers in Action

These dedicated volunteer leaders work with committee members on all aspects of volunteer engagement, and we are truly grateful.

Jim Cooper
Faye Eichenseer
Mary Ann Leslie

Angela Laviano Hamister
Jim Marsh
Michael Osika

Susan Perlow
Michael Wohl

Get Involved

Learn the ways you can help support Martin House.