To spearhead the "Golden Age" movement, we set out to devise different kinds of training so that Golden Agers can continue to contribute to the society in different capacities. Three years ago, we put forward this idea to the Ocean Park that retirees could serve as docents. After several rounds of discussions, we succeeded in co-launching the first "Golden Age Docents" program. The result was impressive and was greatly welcomed by both the Ocean Park and the Golden Agers. The number of Docents in 2017 was doubled to more than 20 from 10 in 2016. The 3rd cohort in 2018 jumped to 43, an encouraging increase not only in numbers, but also the social impact.
The 4th cohort of the Golden Age Docents Programme, was completed on 22 July, 2019. 74 Golden Agers aged between 45 and 73 have been trained and stationed at the Ocean Park as conservation ambassadors and narrators at Ocean Park. They have contributed 9,871 hours of their time to promote animal and conservation messages at the Park, reaching over 110,000 visitors in total from September 2018 to June 2019.
Our Foundation is pleased to see a 75% surge in the number of participants than last year. A survey conducted by the Ocean Park shows that the Golden Age Docents are more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly actions and show a higher awareness of conservation issues compared to the general population.
The Golden Age Volunteer Programme received top honours at the Volunteer Engagement Award organised by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums! Launched in 2016 and jointly organised with Ocean Park and the Sino Group, the programme has worked with over 80 retirees as Golden Age volunteers to promote wildlife conservation at Ocean Park.
We are honoured to receive this award and appreciate the efforts and passion of all volunteers, actively promoting the knowledge, understanding and importance of wildlife conversation to local and overseas visitors. We look forward to continuing our work, advocating for a green living culture!
Golden Age Docent
- Objectives:
- Encourage Golden Agers to contribute to society by engaging in voluntary works;
- Enhance the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of Golden Agers on wildlife ecology and conservation;
- Promote practical conservation work to the general public through professional presentation of Golden Age Docents at various animal exhibition sites
- *This programme is free of charge, yet students should participant more volunteer works in return.
- *Allowance on transportation might be provided if possible.
- Accomplishment:
- Participant who provide 100 hours or above will receive a Certificate of Appreciation