Volunteering at MONA

Would you like to volunteer at our primate sanctuary in Spain?
We are looking for dedicated individuals for volunteer positions at our Primate Sanctuary in the North of Spain.
Working as a volunteer with us is a very rewarding experience but the work can sometimes be intensive, so a reasonable level of fitness is necessary. Generally the primate caregivers work five days a week for a minimum period of six months. The typical workday starts at 8:30 am and finishes when it gets dark (depending on the season), because we like the animals to enjoy as much time in the outside enclosures as possible. Duties include food preparation, cleaning indoor sleeping quarters and creating new enrichment ideas

The Mona Sanctuary is growing constantly but unfortunately we don’t have many resources so the daily tasks can sometimes be very diverse and not always directly related with the animals. All volunteers are expected to help with the following tasks:
- Assisting the investigation department with behavioural observations,
- Helping with the general maintenance of the sanctuary, whether painting a gate or gardening… sometimes some physical effort is required,
- Helping the education department to attend schools and increase the awareness of local children of the plight of captive primates
- Working in the office and helping the marketing and fundraising department
- Taking tours of visitors around the centre.

Each volunteer is responsible for flights to Spain and food during your stay. Although it doesn't cost much for food, a typical week's food shopping would be around 30 euros per person. Ideally we would prefer some experience working with primates but it is not essential.

Housing is provided at no charge to resident volunteers but space can sometimes be limited. We currently have two rooms, each with a bunk bed and also a loft area which house two further volunteers. Laundry facilities, bedding, dishes and access to the kitchen are all provided.

Volunteers must be self-motivated and have a love and respect for primates. You must also be able to work alone as well as in a group, be resourceful and have an ability to get along with a variety of people.

We have had volunteers from many countries including the UK, Italy, Spain and Israel.

VOLUNTEERS MUST HAVE THE FOLLOWING VACCINATIONS AND MEDICAL TESTS BEFORE ENTERING ANY PRIMATE ENCLOSURES:
Tetanus vaccine
Hepatitis A vaccine
Hepatitis B vaccine
Tuberculosis test (or physicians certificate showing that you have had a chest x-ray within a year that is negative for tuberculosis.

Information for volunteers:
If you are interested in volunteering at MONA please e-mail me with your CV and a short cover letter explaining why you want to be part of the Mona team.
Email: LDocherty@MONA-UK.org
Contact: Lorraine Docherty, Ph.D.