The Historic New Orleans Collection is a bustling enterprise, and, in addition to our staff, we rely on a team of nearly 70 volunteers to make it all happen. Our volunteers, who work at both the Royal Street complex and the Williams Research Center, help us with day-to-day gallery and museum operations, tours, seminars, research needs, events and more.
In 2011, volunteers contributed more than 4,200 hours of their time. Our volunteers are as committed to preserving the history and culture of New Orleans as our staff, and it’s not an overstatement to say that we could not present the same level of programming without them. We offer all of our volunteers, past and present, our sincerest thanks.
If you’d like to become a volunteer, we are always looking for new participants! For more information about volunteer opportunities at The Collection, please review the form below.
From Our Volunteers:
What do you like most about volunteering at The Historic New Orleans Collection?
“I love history, and volunteering at THNOC allows me to continue learning about the contributions of New Orleans and Louisiana to our nation’s history culturally, musically, spiritually, politically, socially, etc…Continuing to learn more enhances our own lives and increases our love for our country. Located in the French Quarter makes it especially meaningful since the beginnings of New Orleans and Louisiana are grounded here.” —Loraine Rathman
"What I enjoy most about volunteering is meeting so many fascinating visitors to the city. I've met folks from Europe, from Australia, the Far East and a gentleman from Nova Scotia who was learning about our connection for the first time." — Sarah Churney
Why did you choose to volunteer at The Historic New Orleans Collection?
“I find THNOC has the best resources on the culture of New Orleans—which is so fascinating.” —Adrian McGrath
What do you find the most rewarding part of volunteering at The Historic New Orleans Collection?
“Meeting people from different areas and seeing their reactions to all that New Orleans has to offer.” —DorisMenezes
"I enjoy the interaction with people from all over the world who are truly interested in our past, present & future, & getting a reaction from the native residents of Louisiana who identify with some parts of the exhibits." —Joyce LaNassa
What would you say to encourage others to volunteer here?
“If you love to learn about and share the local and state history, like to volunteer with others who share your love, and want to help others feel your same excitement, come share yourself with others at HNOC and with the visitors who come just waiting to beenlightened!” —Loraine Rathman
"THNOC makes volunteers feel at home and truly value the time they spend at the Collection." —Susan Eberle
"I would tell potential volunteers to consider becoming a HNOC volunteers and broaden their knowledge of New Orleans/Louisiana history. I would strong encourage young individual interested in history and research to become a volunteer. In addition to THNOC providing wonderful educational opportunities, volunteers will find that the staff is very congenial and pleasant to work with." —Eugenia Adams
"I surely feel that I’ve gained more than I’ve given in my association with THNOC. There have been many opportunities for me to learn that would not have occurred without regular volunteering." —Ken Kneipp
Volunteer Form:
Download here
Please submit your completed form to Molly St. Paul at (504) 598-7108 (fax) or by email to mollys@hnoc.org.
Volunteer Shifts:
Tuesday–Saturday
Morning: 9:15 a.m.–1 p.m.
Afternoon: 12:45–4:30 p.m.
Sunday (Royal Street only)
Morning: 10:15 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Afternoon: 1:15–4:30 p.m.
Volunteer Contacts:
Molly St. Paul, Volunteer Coordinator: (504) 598-7139
Bunny Hinckley, Head Docent/Tour Coordinator: (504) 598-7141
