Join the Samara Volunteer Team!
The John E. Christian Family Memorial Trust and Indiana Landmarks are volunteer-powered, non-profit organizations inspired by the joy of historic preservation and the enduring impact of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture. Volunteers play a vital role in fulfilling our shared mission—to protect and maintain Samara and increase awareness of Frank Lloyd Wright and his contributions to American art and culture.
Ways to Volunteer
Interpreter (Tour Guide)
Provide informative and engaging tours of this Frank Lloyd Wright-designed home to audiences visiting from around the world.
Courtesy Help
Support our team of interpreters and site guests before, during, and after tours while meeting a diverse range of people.
Botanical Steward
Gain hands-on horticultural experience and satisfaction from nurturing indoor and outdoor living collections that enrich our visitor’s experience.
Benefits of Volunteering with Us
- Make new and lasting friendships with others excited about Frank Lloyd Wright, history, and architecture.
- Learn more about history and preservation in your community, all while engaging with local, national, and international visitors.
- Build customer service and public speaking skills.
- Enjoy complimentary Indiana Landmarks Membership (after completing 30 hours of service).
- Receive recognition at an annual Volunteer Appreciation Night.
- Help advance one of Indiana’s most cherished cultural treasures.
What We Look for in a Volunteer
You don’t need any special knowledge or experience to become a volunteer at Samara. We look for individuals who are reliable, flexible, and comfortable talking with others. A warm, friendly attitude and a desire to learn new information and techniques are always a plus.
Commitments & Recommendations
We appreciate your willingness to donate your time and talents to support our cause, so we do our best to offer flexible and rewarding volunteer opportunities that fit busy schedules. Active volunteers complete at least six shifts per year—ranging from thirty minutes to three hours each—for an average of about nine total hours. Of course, we also recognize our volunteers who go above and beyond!
Volunteering with Samara is free, beyond a one-time $20 background check fee. We supply all training materials, tools, equipment, and name tags. Light refreshments and snacks are available at orientation, and free parking is provided in our neighborhood.
Volunteer Training
Orientation
All new volunteers must attend our annual in-person orientation. We introduce Samara and Indiana Landmarks, share our mission, and explain how you can help and the policies we use. You’ll receive access to our volunteer scheduling software, a Samara Volunteer Handbook, a nametag, and a welcome packet.
Activity Introductions
Whenever you start a new volunteer activity, we offer guidance and support on the spot so you can feel confident right away.
Interpreter Fundamentals
Along with one in-person training session, you’ll complete a self-paced Interpreter workbook, observe three tours, and lead three shortened practice tours and one full-length tour before becoming fully Samara Certified. We provide all required resources and materials—the workbook, PowerPoint presentations, and a Samara Tour Factbook.
Ready to Sign Up?
Please complete the volunteer application form below. All prospective volunteers must complete a volunteer application, meet with staff for an interview, and complete a background check. Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance into the Volunteer Program. Although we accept applications on a rolling basis, applications must be submitted by January 31, 2026, to be included in the next volunteer orientation.
Got questions or concerns? Please contact our Site Director, Nathan Allaire at 765-409-5522 or info@samara-house.org