With the exception of our Open House Chicago volunteers, volunteers are required to serve 30 hours per calendar year. Shifts are available seven days a week and scheduling is flexible and based on your availability.

Training varies depending on the volunteer position. All volunteers attend a two-hour orientation session followed by specific training for their job. The minimum training for any of the positions is two hours. Our docent volunteers participate in a nine-week training course. All training is conducted by CAC staff and experienced volunteers.

If you are accepted into the docent training class and voluntarily leave the program after it starts, the CAC will request reimbursement of $350 in training and materials costs.

Each volunteer is required to become a member of the CAC. After your first calendar year of service, you will receive a free individual membership, provided that you’ve completed your 30 hours of service.

Our typical volunteers are passionate about architecture and Chicago history. They are usually outgoing and enjoy working with people from all over the world.

Yes, most of our communications are digital and all of our scheduling is done online.

While professional experience is celebrated, there is no need to have professional design experience.

All volunteers must be 18 or older.