Volunteer Opportunities
Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the RJD. Our volunteers provide an invaluable service to the Museum. They welcome visitors, provide quality educational programming, and help keep the grounds looking beautiful. We hope you will join us!
Volunteer opportunities include:
- Gardening
- Special Event Assistance
- Administrative Assistance / Marketing Assistance
- Visitor Services (Front Desk and Shop)
- Don’t see yourself in any job above? Talk to us about your interests and skills!
Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. Volunteer hours are flexible according to the time commitment and interest of each volunteer. Most positions require weekday hours. Those interested should complete a Volunteer Application and CORI Form. Completed forms can be mailed to the museum or email the volunteer coordinator.
Be Part of Moving Equity Forward at the Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum
The Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden Museum is seeking passionate, dynamic individuals interested in joining its Board of Trustees. Trustees play a vital role in supporting the Museum’s mission and governance, ensuring the institution’s continued success, its ability to preserve a rich historical legacy, and serve its community. In opening up nominations to the public, the RJD aims to build a Board of Trustees that is supportive of the Museum’s place in New Bedford’s history and reflective of the diversity of its community.
The RJD celebrated its 40th anniversary last year and is now entering the sixth year of a strategic plan centered on community engagement, diversity, inclusion, and expanded capacity. With steadily increasing attendance, a diversified income base, and an integral role in the Abolition Row narrative, the Museum is poised for continued growth. The Pathways Campaign is also in progress, which will strengthen the RJD’s financial resiliency.
The RJD is committed to equity and inclusion at all levels of its leadership. The Museum is actively seeking Board members who will reflect the backgrounds and experiences of the residents of New Bedford and the surrounding towns and bring diverse perspectives and experiences to decision-making, strategic planning, and key discussions.
We are eager to hear from individuals who are supportive of the RJD’s mission and interested in serving on the Board. Candidates with expertise in financial management or human resources are encouraged to apply to complement our team’s skill set.
Trustees serve a minimum of three years, with a maximum term of nine years. The Board meets bi-monthly, and Trustees are required to serve on at least one committee and actively participate in the Museum’s events and programs.
The deadline to submit interest is June 5, 2026. To apply, complete this intake form. Candidates will be reviewed by the Governance Committee and approved by the Board at the Annual Meeting in September.
In addition, the Museum is seeking both Trustee and non-Trustee volunteers for its committees. Serving on a committee is an opportunity to contribute to the Museum’s mission and gain a deeper understanding of its work. Current committees include Advancement, Collections, Finance, Governance, and Building & Grounds.
For more information, please contact Executive Director Dawn Salerno by email.
