Thursday, September 5, 2013

Utah State Capitol Seeks Volunteer Docents

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SALT LAKE CITY—Do you have an interest in history, art, architecture, or government? Do you harbor a passion for learning or enjoy meeting new people? If so, the Utah State Capitol Visitors Center would love your help. 

Volunteer docents lead visitors on engaging, informative tours about the history, art, and function of the Capitol building. Tens of thousands of students, citizens, and tourists visit the Capitol each year, and volunteers provide an indispensable service by sharing their knowledge of and passion for the building.

In return for volunteering their time and commitment, Capitol docents receive the benefits of meeting visitors from across the globe; developing new skills and areas of expertise; attending volunteer socials and recognition events; and cultivating a special connection with the Capitol community. 

“The Utah State Capitol is a living legacy for all Utahns,” said Allyson Gamble, executive director of the Capitol Preservation Board. “We are grateful for the docents and the time and energy they spend sharing the ‘People’s House’ with visitors from near and far.”

Volunteers are asked to commit to 4 hours every other week. Guided tours of the Capitol are given on the hour between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

Volunteer training begins on October 1, and includes workshops on early Utah history, the building’s construction, architectural and artistic characteristics, the restoration project, and government processes.

To learn about becoming a Capitol docent, please contact Sara Howard at 801-538-1800 or capitoltours@utah.gov.

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Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Volunteer of the week: Beverly Barrett

At the Utah State Capitol Visitors Center, we couldn't survive without our volunteer docents. Each week, we will feature a new docent to show our appreciation for the fantastic individuals who make our free guided tour program a reality.

For four hours every week, Beverly Barrett takes visitors on detailed tours of the Capitol building. A dedicated and loyal volunteer, Beverly has been a Capitol docent for more than five years.

"Beverly has equal passions for politics and people," said Sara Howard, manager of public relations and visitor services.

Beverly comes back from her tours glowing with tidbits about the people she met and the stories they shared.

"The experiences I have here are so interesting, and they are something I will cherish all my life," Beverly said.

Beverly enjoys starting her tours with the current exhibit in the Visitors Center, Step Back in Time: A Centennial Celebration of the Capitol Construction. The exhibit features historic photos and informative stories of the Capitol construction.

A passionate supporter of the arts, Beverly also works for the Sandy Amphitheater.