Volunteer Information

Volunteers Make a Difference

Volunteers are the heart and soul of Naper Settlement. Chicagoland's premiere 19th century village was created by and now daily brought to life through the efforts of volunteers committed to preserving and presenting Naperville's rich heritage.

Learn more details about vounteer opportunities in our PDF brochure >

Costumed Volunteers - Training for the 2010 season is complete. Apply now for the 2011 season.

Costumed volunteers at Naper Settlement Museum portray the lives and times of 19th and early 20th century Naperville residents. They invite Naper Settlement's guests into the homes and businesses that make up our historic village. We welcome adults age 18 and up to train as costumed interpreters. You will be completely trained by experienced staff who will provide you with extensive historical and costuming information. Interpreters share 19th and early 20th traditions with local, national and international visitors, tours and school groups. It is an opportunity to meet others who share your interests; to learn a fascinating new skill or craft such as printing, blacksmithing or sewing by hand; or to involve the whole family in a worthwhile, educational activity. If you can give at least three hours twice a month, consider this an exciting way to start a new interest, and prepare yourself for a rewarding, interactive adventure. Call today to join the fun!

Non-Costumed Volunteers - Flexible commitment, from once a year to once a month.

Special Events - Get in on the fun of special events like Civil War Days, All Hallows Eve and Oktoberfest by selling tickets, handing out programs, greeting visitors, helping with concessions, games, crafts, and more.

Office Support - Assist with mailings, data entry, event planning.

Weed Ladies - Create silk and dried floral arrangements with this friendly group. A fall sale benefits preservation and educational programs at Naper Settlement.

Curatorial - Care for artifacts and do historical research.

Restoration - Carpentry and general construction.

Community Groups - Your organization, Boy/Girl Scout troop, club, church, or business can assist with special projects and earn service hours.

Special Skills - Put your talents to good use! Tell us your interest: photography, crafts, decorating, magic - you name it!

Junior/Teen Interpreter Program - Training for the 2010 season is complete. Apply now for the 2011 season.

Young people grades 4 through 7 are eligible to become Junior Interpreters at Naper Settlement. The Junior Interpreters spend their shifts at various locations throughout the grounds, engaged in the types of activities typical of 19th-century children. Training is held in February and March. Junior Interpreters are asked to serve a minimum of two shifts per month, April through October.

Young adults in grade 8 serve as a teen apprentice and those in grades 9-12 serve as a teen journeyman. Teen journeymen are specially trained for the building they select, and serve as tour guides in that building, along with the Adult Interpreters (ages 18 and up).

*The grade level is the grade the student is in on April 1.

Help bring history to life! Call now to sign up for individual or family opportunities!

Contact the Volunteer Manager at: 630.305.5256 e-mail: nsvolunteer@naperville.il.us

Naper Settlement is a not-for-profit organization.