Intro to Becoming a JFG Docent Stepping Stones to Success By Frederic Hewett September 2, 2015

Welcome

Self Intro JFG Program Coordinator since May 2015 2013 International Friendship Games – Chula Vista and Tijuana 2014 Internship at U.S. Embassy, Tokyo SD Yokohama Sister City Society, Board Member

What is a Docent? Docent = educate and inform people Docents share part of a legacy Docent tours as an art (intimate experience) Desire to keep learning, improving Want to share this gift with our community

Part 1 The Vision

Brief History of JFG 1915 Panama Canal Exhibit Japanese Tea Pavilion and the Asakawa family 1940s WWII and Wartime Relocation 1950s San Diego Yokohama Sister City Exchanges 1960 House of Japan 1970s-1980s Land grant and Fundraising For JFG 1990-2015 Construction of Japanese Friendship Garden

About the Docent Program

Keys to Being an Effective Docent Be personable, utilize personal experiences to tell a story Challenge the audience, get to know them Use humor Take advantage of learning opportunities inside/outside Garden Practice and shadow other docents Get feedback Attend general meetings Use props Safety first Communicate!!!

Qualities of an Effective Docent Dedication Timeliness Initiative Flexibility Curiosity Friendliness Good listener Engaging Team player Why am I here and what do I want to contribute and gain from being docent?

Part 2 The System

This is what we are supposed to be….

The reality…

JFG Structure of Command Fred - programs@niwa.org, 619.402.4911 Interns Docents Call Office 619.232.2722 (Fred Ext. 1505, Gate Ext. 1522)

Communication Email blasts Phone Docent General Meeting Reminders (3rd Wed/Month) Information Private tour requests Scheduling (swap shifts, etc.) REPLY ALL when relevant Phone Immediate need to contact Coordinating for large group tours Please identify yourself on phone and message

Monthly Docent Meetings Usually held 3rd Wednesday of the month Notices sent by e-blast Very important to attend Touch base Connect with one another Discuss problems Scheduling Continuing Education

Requirements Complete all classes during this docent training Docent for at least one year, two regular tours a month Be open to accepting private tour requests Attend general docent meetings once a month

Navigating Website (1/3)

Navigating Website (2/3)

Navigating Website (3/3)

Daily Routine (Public Tour) Arrive 30 minutes early Sign in at office Set up signs Upper Garden (45-60 min) Break (15 – 60 min) Lower Garden (45-60 min) Return signs Sign out

Routine for Private Tour Schools, Clubs, Tourists, etc. request a tour They fill out tour request form Tour date, group size, special requests (tea ceremony, lower garden etc.) I e-blast everyone to find who’s available, then confirm tour date with client 15-20 people maximum per docent (can split large groups among multiple docents)

Things to remember Bring water, hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes and clothes Arrive early to account for parking Be prepared to do set up and clean up tours by yourself Communicate closely with Program Coordinator as needed Review your notes regularly (don’t forget them!), keep on learning Log in your volunteer hours

Part 3 The Training

Training Course (1/2) CONTENT History of JFG Aesthetic and design principles of Japanese Gardens Relevant Japanese cultural subjects Horticultural Knowledge (Hands on) Techniques for public speaking/giving tours

Training Course (2/2) REQUIREMENTS Attend 10 Weekly Courses Study Materials (printouts, video, reading list, your own research) Shadow at least THREE docents Get at least one hands-on gardening experience Attend additional events as necessary

Questions?