Posted by Peggy Strom on Apr 25, 2022
Our speaker today was Jonathan Turner, Volunteer Coordinator for the MSP Airport Foundation.  This highly organized and comprehensive program through the Foundation is the only one of its kind in the world.  Volunteers provide information and services to travelers and help more than two million people each year.  Prior to the pandemic there were 600 Traveler Assistance Volunteers and 100 Animal Ambassadors.  Those numbers fell during the worst of the pandemic so there is opportunity for those who might be interested in joining.  The minimum time commitment is 2 shifts per month and each shift is between 2 and 4 hours.  Traveler Assistance volunteers work at information booths and walk the terminals assisting travelers with directions, flight status, lost and found, transportation, hotels and local tourist attractions.  Customs and Border Protection volunteers welcome incoming international travelers while assisting U.S. Customs personnel.  Animal Ambassadors are registered therapy animals, and volunteer with their human handlers in casual meet-and-greet activities at designated petting stations.  In addition to these activities, the Foundation also handles art exhibits and performing arts events at the airport.