Celebrating Dedication: Honoring Two Outstanding Volunteers at LVNHM

On Saturday, April 26, the Las Vegas Natural History Museum hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Celebration, a heartfelt event to recognize the remarkable individuals who give their time and energy to support the museum’s mission. Volunteers and interns are the backbone of our success, and we are incredibly grateful for their passion, commitment, and countless contributions. 

This year, we were especially proud to honor two exceptional volunteers, John and Jadon, who have achieved a remarkable milestone: over five years of dedicated service and more than 1,000 volunteer hours each. Their unwavering commitment has left an indelible mark on the museum and our community.

John: A Pillar of Positivity and Dedication

John joined the LVNHM volunteer team in 2016, inspired by a family member’s recommendation. Over the past nine years, he has become a cornerstone of our volunteer program, earning a reputation for his cheerful attitude and willingness to take on any challenge. From setting up large-scale events to assisting with traveling exhibits and even managing unique projects like transporting taxidermy, John approaches every task with enthusiasm.

This year, we celebrate John for surpassing 1,000 volunteer hours—a testament to his dedication. His advice to future volunteers is simple:

"Learn and have fun!"

John’s contributions go far beyond completing tasks. His ability to bring positivity and energy to every project has made a lasting impact on the museum’s team and visitors alike. Whether it’s helping with an event or taking on unusual requests, John’s enthusiasm is truly unmatched.

"John has been an absolute delight to work with," shares Heather Reeder, Volunteer & Intern Coordinator. "His positive energy and willingness to tackle any challenge make him an irreplaceable part of our team. He always arrives with a smile and a can-do attitude, ready to take on any project—even some of the museum's more unique requests, like transporting taxidermy in his car." 

Jadon: Sharing a Love for Dinosaurs and Education

Jadon began volunteering at the museum in 2018 as a high school student, driven by his passion for prehistoric life and a desire to educate others. Over the years, he has become a familiar face in the Prehistoric Life Gallery, where he enthusiastically shares his knowledge about dinosaurs and evolution with visitors.

"We always have room for more volunteers," says Jadon. "Share your passion, follow your dreams, and know the door is always open."

With over five years of service and 1,000 volunteer hours under his belt, Jadon has made a lasting impact on both the museum and its visitors.

"Jadon’s enthusiasm for science and his talent for engaging with visitors of all ages make him an exceptional volunteer," says Heather. "His passion for prehistoric animals is truly inspiring and serves as a remarkable bridge between the museum and its guests. Young learners see through him that it’s not only okay but exciting to love science, keep learning, and remain curious by asking questions."

A Permanent Tribute to Their Volunteer Legacy

To commemorate their extraordinary contributions, the museum is honoring John and Jadon with engraved bricks that will be placed in the walkway leading up to the museum. These bricks serve as a lasting tribute to their dedication and their commitment to their community. 

Their efforts have enriched the museum experience for visitors and helped foster a love for science and natural history in our community. John and Jadon embody the very spirit of what it means to be a volunteer, and we’re excited to be presenting them with this lasting reward to show our gratitude. 

To all our volunteers and interns: thank you for your invaluable contributions. Your dedication makes our mission possible, and we look forward to continuing to create unforgettable experiences together!

If you’re inspired by John and Jadon’s stories, we invite you to join our volunteer team! Together, we can make a difference and inspire the next generation of scientists and explorers. 

Volunteer Today