Volunteer opportunities
Volunteers are integral to fulfilling the Nelson-Atkins’ mission, helping create a welcoming, inclusive space for all. Whether interacting with guests or working behind the scenes, your participation shapes the museum experience.
What you get as a volunteer:
- Education: Free orientation, training, and ongoing learning opportunities.
- Flexibility: Set a schedule that works for you.
- Hands-on activity: Engage directly with guests or support vital operations.
- Community: Build camaraderie with staff and fellow volunteers.
We offer a variety of volunteer roles, including two that focus on working directly with guests in the galleries:
- Museum Guides
Facilitate learning in the galleries through drop-in activities, art conversations, and hands-on experiences. - Docents
Lead guided tours for guests of all ages, sharing knowledge and encouraging deeper connections with art. - General Volunteers
Join our museum volunteer team and find a committee where your time and talents can help connect our collection with the community and create a welcoming sense of belonging for all.
Ready to join our volunteer team?
Although we are not currently accepting applications for new volunteers, you can reach out with any questions to our Volunteer Engagement team at volunteer@nelson-atkins.org.
Teen Council
The Nelson-Atkins Teen Council is a group of creative, motivated high school students who help shape teen programming at the museum. Council members collaborate with museum staff to design events, contribute fresh ideas, and make the Nelson-Atkins a welcoming space for youth from across the Kansas City area.
Applications remain open, with interviews and acceptances taking place each August. For more information, visit the page below.
Friends of Art Council
Nelson-Atkins membership has a rich history of volunteer engagement. The Friends of Art Council supports the museum by advocating, stewarding, and raising funds on behalf of and through membership.
Applications open each January and February. If you have related questions, contact membership@nelson-atkins.org.
Party Arty Planning Committee
Hosted by the Young Friends of Art, the annual Party Arty fundraiser draws inspiration from the galleries for a vibrant night of festivities in support of art education at the Nelson-Atkins.
Applications open each June and July. If you have related questions, contact PartyArty@nelson-atkins.org.
Membership
Member support keeps general admission to the museum free for all, ensuring the Nelson-Atkins remains an accessible community resource. In return, members enjoy benefits like free and early access to special exhibitions, free garage parking, and year-round dining and retail discounts.