Volunteer Tour Guides

Volunteer docent presenting to students in the General Assembly Chamber of the New Jersey State House

Volunteer Tour Guides

Volunteers help to welcome citizens, students and tourists to the State House, where they learn about our rich history and representative democracy.

Volunteer Opportunities

Who volunteers?

State House Tour Office volunteers are a diverse group of professionals, retired educators, business people, students and homemakers who share a love of history, an interest in government, and a desire to teach others about the State of New Jersey.

Tour Guide

In hour-long tours, volunteer guides teach visitors about the lawmaking process, including the role the citizen plays in shaping public policy. Tours also include an overview of State history, and the art and architecture of one of the most significant buildings in New Jersey.

"Make-A-Law!" Facilitator

In this program, students role-play as legislators and learn that debate, negotiation and compromise are at the heart of the lawmaking process. A volunteer facilitator takes on the role of the Senate President or General Assembly Speaker to guide the discussion and final vote. Make-A-Law! lessons are for grades 3^rd through 12^th and last 30-45 minutes.

Volunteer Requirements

Individuals must complete a questionnaire and be interviewed. Selected applicants will be trained and evaluated by Tour Office staff. Volunteers must:

Complete a five-session training program
Be available during weekdays
Lead 12 tours or Make-A-Law! programs annually
Interact with diverse groups of visitors in a friendly and welcoming manner
Be able to organize and present information in a meaningful way
Fulfill the responsibilities explained in the Participation Guidelines

Volunteer Benefits

Continuing education through workshops and special programs
Skill development in leadership and public-speaking
Meeting active, like-minded people in your community
Field trips to regional tourist sites
Special events
Recognition by legislative leaders
Personally rewarding experiences — see testimonials below

For more information, contact Carol Rogers, Tour Guide Liaison, 609-847-3150, crogers@njleg.org

What makes volunteering at the New Jersey State House rewarding?

“Facilitating a tour is the highlight of my day! When I walk the halls and rooms of the State House, I am filled with awe and feel proud sharing the art, history and architecture with visitors from all over. As a retired educator, I was looking for a way to stay involved with children. Volunteering as a docent has given me this opportunity and so much more!”

– Carol Hotchkiss, Volunteer Tour Guide

“Being a State House tour guide is one of my favorite activities. It helps me learn more about New Jersey’s history, civics and current events. And each tour group brings new questions and perspectives, so my education is ongoing. If you like learning, teaching and interacting with young minds, I highly recommend becoming a State House tour guide.”

– Stan DeGroote, Volunteer Tour Guide

“Becoming a tour guide for the New Jersey State House is a wonderful experience. Not only is there so much history contained within these walls, but it provides a unique experience to see the awe through the eyes of others. Whether the visitors are Capitol Collectors, a passerby, on a school trip or an out-of-country visitor, everyone gains an appreciation for what happens beneath the Gold Dome.”

– Natalie Pagan, Volunteer Tour Guide

“In addition to speaking about the value of democracy, one of the things I like most about being a NJ State House Volunteer is the way the staff treats us. Before, during, and after every tour I feel the staff is there supporting me 110%. That certainly makes for a very pleasant experience!”

Volunteer Tour Guides