The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome in Rhinebeck, N.Y., is seeking volunteers for its 2011 season. There is a specific need for people to serve as docents for its expanded experiential museum tour program. Some knowledge of aviation is helpful but a strong desire to work with the public, flexibility, dependability and enthusiasm are most important to do any form of volunteer work for Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome, officials said.
In addition to docents, volunteers are needed for Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome’s museum (open daily from June 4 through Oct. 16). Office administration and answering phones would be typical of museum activity but could extend to participation in direct mail campaigns for membership building, and fund raising. Basic computer skills such as word processing, spreadsheet programs and navigating the Internet are helpful. Volunteers will be trained to field visitors questions about the Aerodrome and its collection of World War I, barnstorming and pioneer era airplanes and artifacts.
Volunteers are also needed to assist in all aspects of air show production on Saturdays and Sundays. Activity could include aircraft handling and positioning on the flight line as well as set up and recovery of antique airplanes during flight operations. Staff will be needed to assist with the admission and biplane rides booths. There may also be opportunities as understudies, actors, actresses, and some assistance in plot development, staging, sound and special effects for those with related skills.
If you are interested in flying or maintaining our aircraft, and are experienced with flying taildraggers, contact the museum for an interview. There is also work for artists, painters and builders for set preparation and repair.
The operation of the Aerodrome depends largely on volunteers, but officials say they do select personnel for part-time and full-time paid positions from among its most productive volunteers. People of all ages are encouraged; retired people with established skills are welcomed but so are students and young adults developing skills and acquiring experience for the future. Internships and cooperative programs with colleges and universities are encouraged.
The Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome Museum displays World War I, barnstorming era and antique airplanes from the earliest days of aviation. Dog fights and barnstorming demonstrations take place against a backdrop of tongue-in-cheek melodramas during weekend air shows. Biplane rides over the Hudson Valley in the open passenger compartment of the Aerodrome’s 1929 New Standard D-25 bi-plane are available on weekends and by advance arrangement on weekdays. For more information: OldRhinebeck.org
