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

2. Welcome

3. 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

4. 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

5. Part 1
The Vision

6. 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
House of Japan
1970s-1980s Land grant and Fundraising For JFG
Construction of Japanese Friendship Garden

7. About the Docent Program

8. 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!!!

9. 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?

10. Part 2
The System

11. This is what we are supposed to be….

12. The reality…

13. JFG Structure of Command
Fred
Interns
Docents
Call Office
(Fred Ext. 1505, Gate Ext. 1522)

14. 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

15. 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

16. 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

17. Navigating Website (1/3)

18. Navigating Website (2/3)

19. Navigating Website (3/3)

20. 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

21. 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)

22. 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

23. Part 3
The Training

24. 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

25. 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

26. Questions?