Posted on December 3, 2022
| 3:55pm
The Santa Barbara Maritime Museum (SBMM) at the Santa Barbara Harbor is looking for people to join its next 11-week docent training program held 9-10:30 am Saturdays, Jan. 14-March 25.
The lecturer program is for those who enjoy meeting and talking with people from Santa Barbara, all of California, and around the world. Lecturers, who are asked to volunteer a least three hours a week, share their love and knowledge of the local harbor and coast with visitors.
The Jan. 14 class is an introduction to the docent program and how to interpret exhibits. Community members are invited to attend that day to decide if they want to continue and become SBMM lecturers.
Lecturers study and learn about the native Chumash people, commercial diving and fishing milestones, the museum’s flagship Ranger, the Santa Barbara Channel’s military history, and Santa Barbara as the birthplace of the environmental movement.
Docents support SBMM’s mission to create quality exhibits and educational experiences that celebrate the Santa Barbara Channel and illuminate the city’s connections with the sea.
“Docents also enjoy the social environment of the museum, make new friends, and gain a feeling of fulfillment,” said Jesse Baker-Lorelli guest services manager.
“I have to admit that I love being in the museum,” said docent Diane Kirchner said. “I learn something new every day, and it’s fun to share tidbits with our guests. They are always so appreciative.”
For more on how to volunteer and become a lecturer, contact Baker-Lorelli at jbaker@sbmm.org or 805 456-8748. To apply, complete a volunteer application at https://sbmm.org/volunteer.