Volunteer Opportunities

Our Volunteer Program

Whether you’re looking to volunteer one time for a special event, or on an on-going basis within one of our departments, there are a variety of opportunities to fit your skills, interests, and availability. 

Why volunteer?
Benefits of the Robert R. McCormick Foundation Volunteer Program include:

• Learning new skills specific to each department (i.e., public speaking, antiques preservation, plant care).
• A sense of accomplishment and pride knowing that your participation directly impacts our visitors.
• Widening your social network by sharing your interests with like-minded individuals.
• Free parking at Cantigny, any time the park is open.
• Free admittance to concerts, the Fine Arts Festival, Shakespeare in the Park, Auto Show, and other special events throughout the year.
• A 10% discount at the Visitors Center Gift Shop and the Cantigny Golf Pro Shop.
• Invitations to the Annual Spring Kick-off Dinner and Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.
• An invitation to the Cantigny Staff Picnic in August.
• Free golf as the guest of a full-time Cantigny employee.
• Awards for 100, 300, 500, and 1,000 hours+ of work.

What are the requirements?

• Dedication to the mission of the McCormick Foundation: Advancing the ideals of a free, democratic society by investing in children, communities, and country.
• Open-mindedness and patience to work with a diverse public and staff.
• Integrity in representing the Robert R. McCormick Foundation and oneself with the highest standards.
• Desire to share your passion, knowledge, and time with others.
• Reliability to commit to the minimum number of hours required by your position.
• Must be at least 16 years old

How do I get started?
After reviewing the opportunity descriptions below, you may download and print an application:

Volunteer Application (for an on-going position) or
Special Event Volunteer Application (for a one time/special event position).

Please note that many of our positions are currently full. If you are interested in a position that is closed, please check this website frequently as we will post openings as they become available.

Once your application is received, it will be reviewed and passed on to the appropriate department’s director.  If you apply for opportunities in multiple departments, your application will first be given to the department with the greatest need.  The department director will contact you and arrange for a convenient time to meet one-on-one to discuss the opportunities further and complete the application process.  On-the-job training and supervision is provided for all volunteer positions.

If you should have any questions regarding the McCormick Foundation Volunteer Program please call or email Jennifer Benton, Education and Volunteer Coordinator at 630.260.8232 or Volunteer@Cantigny.org

What opportunities are available?

Horticulture

Robert R. McCormick Museum

Visitors Center

First Division Museum

Coming soon: The Freedom Project's Freedom Express

Help local students and community members increase their understanding of the First Amendment and its importance to our democracy through a mobile museum!