EUGENE, Ore. — (Sept. 25, 2012) — The University of Oregon's Museum of Natural and Cultural History, 1680 E. 15th Ave., will host an open house for those interested in serving as volunteers. The hour-long open house will begin at 4 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 27.

Museum staff will discuss opportunities to assist with the museum's public programs and the benefits of service. Once trained, volunteers can provide support in education, exhibits and visitor services. The training series, which combines hands-on learning, lectures and discussions, is scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays, Oct. 2-18, at the museum.

"Being a volunteer means becoming an integral part of stewarding our human and natural history," said Jules Abbott, museum education coordinator. "It's an engaging way for life-long learners to continue exploring while also giving back to their community."

A unique volunteer opportunity available this year is serving as part of the MNCH Marionettes Troupe. The museum is looking for two to three puppeteers to manipulate wooden string puppets for up to three performances during the year. The ability to hold up to 20 pounds is required.

A special open house for volunteers interested in the marionette program is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday, Sept. 28. RSVPs are strongly encouraged.

For more information about volunteering at the museum, contact Jules Abbott at 541-346-1694 or jabbott@uoregon.edu.

About the Museum of Natural and Cultural History
The Museum of Natural and Cultural History, 1680 E. 15th Ave. in Eugene, is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for seniors and youths 17 and under, and $8 for families (two adults and up to four youths). Museum members are admitted free. Guided tours are offered each Friday at 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Media Contact: Rebecca Black, marketing and communications specialist, Museum of Natural and Cultural History, 541-346-5083, rblack@uoregon.edu

Museum on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/oregonnaturalhistory