Volunteer
Become a Volunteer Lighthouse Keeper!
Help Support
The primary responsibilities of Volunteer Keepers include the following: Volunteers greet visitors to the lighthouse and provide historical information about the lighthouses. Everyone receives complete training in advance, and they may be asked to operate the lighthouse gift shop, accept admissions fees and give tours to the top of the towers. Volunteers may be busy, dependent on the day and the weather. Keepers who are on site during the spring and fall months may also be asked to provide student tours and programs for large numbers of school groups.
Volunteers are asked to learn basic historic information about our lighthouses. They must be energetic, friendly and feel comfortable speaking to the public. While it is preferable they can climb the stairs of the tower and handle money in the gift shop, there are various other opportunities that exist to meet everyone's needs and abilities. Volunteers provide visitors with a fun, informative and educational experience at the Muskegon lighthouses.
Volunteer Form
Muskegon Lights Volunteer Recruitment Meeting
Muskegon Lights volunteers receive training each Spring or as onboarding takes place throughout the summer.
Please inquire to [email protected] or just come to a published event, typically posted on our FaceBook page that evening to learn more about volunteering and climb the lighthouse! Call 844-MLIGHTS or email us for more information, or follow the event on Muskegon South Pierhead Light on Facebook.
Over 120 years of constant use and weathering the elements have left the Muskegon lighthouses in need of critical repairs. We are accepting donations both large and small so we can raise the necessary funds for a complete restoration of both lighthouses. Volunteers are needed for a crucial portion of this plan, especially for opening the tower for tours. Please donate or volunteer today.
Volunteer Training Sessions
Our lighthouse keepers keep Muskegon‘s maritime and lighthouse history alive by opening the Muskegon South Pierhead Light tower to visitors from all over the world, between May and October.
At these spring training meetings, community members, returning and new volunteers and any interested lighthouse enthusiasts will learn more about the duties of a lighthouse keeper. We will hear from seasoned volunteers on a bit of the local history of the area and everyone will receive a history booklet with more detailed information that they can study at their leisure to prepare before volunteering. While we ask for dependability and good communication regarding scheduling, our program is a very low-key, relaxed environment and offers a great way to make new friends, meet new people and enjoy an evening on the lakes.
A lighthouse tour will be offered is provided with the training, which is followed up with a hands on, more in-depth training given by Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy experienced volunteers working with you on your first shift.
Your Rights as a Volunteer
Know Them
MLC Discrimination Policy:
The Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy prohibits discrimination in all programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. The lighthouse towers are not ADA accessible for example, but other volunteer opportunities exist.
Privacy Act Statement:
Collection and use of personal information is for use by Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy only. The data will be used to maintain official records of volunteers and not shared outside of Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy.
Help Save Lighthouses – Donate Now
Help support the Michigan Lighthouse Conservancy with your thoughtful donation