Since its founding, volunteers have been the heart and soul of the Antique Boat Museum. Each year, our dedicated Volunteer Corps contributes between 9,000 and 12,000 hours, helping us fulfill our mission to preserve and share North America’s pleasure boating history and the nautical heritage of the St. Lawrence River.
Working alongside Museum staff, volunteers have helped ABM grow into the world-class institution it is today. We’re deeply grateful for their time, enthusiasm, and expertise—and we always welcome new members to join this incredible team.
Why Volunteer with ABM?
When you volunteer, you:
- Give the Museum a vital gift—your time and talent.
- Meet new people and form lasting friendships.
- Learn about antique boats, boating traditions, and the rich history of the 1000 Islands.
- Receive orientation and training for your chosen role.
- Earn rewards for your service—15+ hours per season can be redeemed for guest passes, memberships, boat rides, or Museum Store discounts.
Whether you have a few hours a month or a few days a week, there’s a place for you at ABM!
Current Volunteer Roles Include:
- Boat Captains: Operate ABM’s in-water fleet (Merchant Mariner’s credential required).
- Boat Care & Maintenance: Clean, polish, paint, and perform light restoration on boats and engines.
- Builder: Create exhibit components and event materials in our workshops.
- Clerical Support: Assist with mailings, volunteer communications, and event preparation.
- Curatorial Assistant: Help catalog, organize, and prepare artifacts, or assist in the library and archives.
- Interpreter/Docent: Lead tours of the Museum and La Duchesse.
- Education Assistant: Support programs, children’s activities, and volunteer training.
- Gallery Attendant: Greet visitors and provide information in exhibit spaces.
- Gardening: Maintain the Museum’s gardens and seasonal plantings.
- Grounds Maintenance: Assist with cleaning, repairs, and event setup or breakdowns.
- Museum Store Assistant: Prepare merchandise for sale and help with store organization.
- Special Events: Greet guests, sell tickets, assist with food service, or help manage docks and activities.
Get Involved
Ready to join our Volunteer Corps?
- Review the 2025–2026 Volunteer Handbook for full details.
- Submit your Volunteer Sign-Up Form to share your interests and availability.
If you have questions, please contact: Amy Denesha, Volunteer Coordinator 📞 315.686.4104 ext. 250 ✉️ adenesha@abm.org
Volunteering in 2026:
Submit your Volunteer Timesheet online or fill out one of the forms located in the volunteer lounge.
For La Duchesse training, visit the Docent Online Training portal.
2026 Volunteer Events:
- Spring Volunteer Connect: Wednesday, May 30, 5:30 PM–7:30 PM
- Volunteer Appreciation Event: Thursday, September 3, 5:30 PM
Volunteer Council:
Amy Denesha (Volunteer Coordinator), Rebecca Hopfinger (Executive Director), Gary Kocher, Cathy Messenger, Ed Peters (Lead Captain), Jess Gould (Events & Communications Coordinator), Greg Timmerman, Caryn Clement
