Santa Barbara Maritime Museum Announces Docent Program

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum has announced the launch of its 2025 Docent Program.

Below is a press release about the announcement:

The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) is pleased to announce the launch of its 2025 Docent Program, with the first training session beginning on January 11, 2025 at 9:00 am. This program offers individuals a unique opportunity to delve into the rich maritime history of the Santa Barbara Canal while giving back to the community.

The Docent Program at SBMM welcomes people of all backgrounds, ages and interests who are eager to support the museum’s mission. Volunteers play a vital role in helping interpret exhibits, leading educational programs, assisting with special events and much more. In return, they gain invaluable skills, connect with like-minded individuals and become part of a vibrant maritime community.

Key program details:

• Date: Volunteer classes begin Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 9:00 am
• Location: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum, 113 Harbor Way, Ste 190, Santa Barbara, CA 93109.
• Program Overview: The 11-week training covers maritime history, exhibit curation, and teacher responsibilities. Volunteers are trained in guest service, education and event support.
• Requirements: Volunteers must be at least 16 years old.

Greg Gorga, SBMM Executive Director, shared his enthusiasm for the volunteer class: “Volunteers are the lifeblood of our museum. They are essential to providing exceptional experiences for visitors and helping us preserve Santa Barbara’s maritime heritage. This program allows volunteers to make a meaningful contribution while gaining unique insights into our maritime history.”

Jesse Baker-Lorelli, SBMM Guest Relations Manager added:

“Our docent program is an incredible opportunity for individuals to engage with Santa Barbara’s maritime history while making meaningful contributions to the museum. Docents at SBMM are not just volunteers; they are the keel of our ship because they help us keeping things moving in the right direction We are excited to welcome new educators to our team and share this unique opportunity with anyone who is passionate about history and community service.”

Program participants have access to specialized training, behind-the-scenes tours and exclusive volunteer appreciation events. They will also be invited to monthly lectures and community programs at the museum. This is a great opportunity for anyone who wants to contribute to SBMM’s mission to preserve and share the region’s rich maritime history.

How to Apply: Interested individuals can apply online by visiting the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum website at www.sbmm.org/volunteer or by contacting Jesse Baker-Lorelli at (805) 456-8748. To participate in the January training, registrations must be submitted before January 4, 2025.

For more information about the volunteer program or to learn more about the museum’s upcoming events, visit SBMM’s website or call the museum at (805) 962-8404.

About the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum: Founded in 2000, the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum presents and interprets the rich maritime history of the Santa Barbara Channel. Through interactive exhibitions, educational programs and hands-on activities, the museum inspires love and understanding for the sea, the land and the people of this region.

Santa Barbara Maritime Museum