World of Wonders Science Museum

Discover energy, electricity, magnetism, optics, and more at the World of Wonders (WOW) Science Museum in historic downtown Lodi, California, where hands-on exhibits stimulate discovery for visitors of all ages. The WOW is an exciting, educational, and inspiring science destination where both children and adults can learn about their surroundings!

What the World of Wonders contributes to the region:

• Encourages students to pursue careers in STEM fields.
• Adds to formal science education in the classroom.
• A popular location for school field trips.
• Offers a wonderful, family-friendly environment.
• Our local economy is stimulated as a result.
• Helps future generations
• Enhances our quality of life

History of the WOW

On his way home from a family visit to the Exploratorium in San Francisco in 2004, Lodi resident Dan Ingrum realized that this was exactly what the Central Valley needed: an Exploratorium-style museum for our families, community, and future. In 2005, a small group of dedicated visionaries came together in the hopes of constructing a hands-on science museum to help supplement the education of our children today and for future generations, inspired by one man’s dream. With limited time in science classrooms, these visionaries believed it was the ideal time to establish an informal science education center to foster not only young scientists and engineers, but also to improve science education in general.

The WOW’s new 1700 sq. ft. adjacent to the hands-on museum, the WOW’s new 1700 sq. ft. The ft. educational science classroom is now open for business! Local communities banded together once more to construct the new addition. The WOW would like to express its heartfelt gratitude to Dr. KR and Robbie Hovatter of Scientific Specialties for their generous donation toward the expansion of the educational space.

About the Program

Volunteering allows you to teach others, learn new skills, meet new people, and investigate potential career paths. Share your enthusiasm for science by volunteering in your community and contributing to the work of the Museum. They are only able to offer positions that are currently open. They offer positions on a first-come, first-served basis. After completing the initial assignment, volunteers may move from one area of volunteer support to another. Volunteer requirements vary according to current exhibitions, programs, and projects. Volunteers may be asked to fill or complete additional duties and tasks that were not initially assigned to the Museum’s work. All of the positions are unpaid.

Volunteer Benefits

Because of their wonderful volunteers, the World of Wonders has grown into what it is today. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization, and we are eternally grateful for your assistance. They want to reward their volunteers for their efforts by providing you with benefits to enjoy while giving them your time and best effort. Here are some of the advantages you can expect if you become one of their volunteers.

• 20% discount in the museum shop after 8 hours of volunteer service
• Free entry to the Museum and 20% discount for family and friends museum admission price after 20 hours of volunteer service
• Receive a free volunteer Tee shirt after 40 hours of volunteer service
• Earn a one year free wow Family Membership, which includes reciprocal admissions to over 300 museums and science centers around the country after 100 hours of volunteer service
• Invitations to Museum parties and special events at discounted rates
• In-house training programs such as coaching skills, presentation skills, project management, and management development
• As a volunteer at the World of Wonders, you will gain many skills and experiences that will prepare you for future endeavors by participating in the Museum’s wide range of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers learn technical skills, how to interact with the public, how to teach, and how to improve work habits and management techniques. You may wish to supplement your resume by mentioning the experience and skills you gained through volunteer work at the World of Wonders Science Museum.
• You will be able to obtain a letter of recommendation. You may request a letter of recommendation at the end of your time with them or, depending on the circumstances, when you reapply.