We are thrilled to recognize Mars Kelly as the October Volunteer of the Month. Mars served as a Junior Docent and after graduating began volunteering leading our school programs. Now that Mars is pursuing a degree in Museum Studies, we are excited to welcome him as a student intern in the education department. Mars is dedicated, has great ideas, and always works hard to support the mission of the CSPM! Congratulations, Mars!
I have been volunteering with the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum since I was eleven, beginning with the Junior Docent program. I learned many education and interpersonal skills, manning the Hands on History carts in various exhibits, as well as volunteering for the larger events the museum hosted. I was part of the program until I graduated high school, when I then began volunteering with the school and outreach programs.
The Junior Docent program was so important to me because it shaped me in many ways; in my confidence, social skills, friendships, connections and ultimately my passion for the museum field.
I aspire to find a career in museums, either in education or collections. I have always enjoyed working with children and providing fun and educational opportunities for them. I work as a counselor at a Girl Scout summer camp, and I am also a Girl Scout troop leader. My work as the Education Intern at the CSPM has given me new insight into ways to develop learning opportunities for a variety of age groups, and it compliments what I do with Girl Scouts.
I am currently a freshman majoring in Museum Practice and Heritage Management at UCCS. I am enjoying the variety of classes I am taking, and am very passionate about my degree and where it will lead me! I plan to make many connections and gain knowledge that will open doors for me in the world of museum work. I hope that the variety of classes I take allow me to experiment with what my strengths and weaknesses are.
My favorite memories at the Pioneers Museum are mostly related to our large events. Each year I have always had an amazing time face painting at the Festival of Lights Family Fun Day! I love being able to connect both with the guests who come in and our amazing community of volunteers.
In my internship, I have been able to assist in planning school and other educational programming, and creating promotional content for upcoming educational events. I also get to assist in preparation for various crafts and activities for our education department. I am able to help the museum out with my wide variety of responsibilities, and I am very proud of what I have accomplished so far.