If you're interested in history, and especially if you enjoy interacting with visitors, you’re already a great fit. The Mission Docents welcome you to join us as we lead tours of Old Mission and share its story—no church affiliation is required.

A comprehensive introductory training session is typically held on a designated Saturday in March, covering topics from the pre-mission Chumash era through the Spanish, Mexican, and American periods. After the initial session, you will be paired with an experienced docent mentor who will provide one-on-one training to further develop your skills. You will also be invited to attend our ongoing monthly meetings, held on the third Saturday of each month, where we hone our presentation skills and listen to special presentations that build our knowledge base.

Training includes lectures by historians, opportunities to shadow seasoned docents, and personalized mentoring in tour-giving techniques. Once certified, you can lead hourly tours year‑round and choose your own schedule—many docents also assist in gift shop or 4th grade educational programs

If interested, contact us by phone or email
missionslodocents87@gmail.com
805-550-7714

Upon completing the paperwork, an online safety course and a background check, you will receive your name tag and after leading your first tour, you will be recognized with an official docent shirt.

Becoming a docent is more than just volunteering to lead tours—it's joining a passionate community dedicated to interpreting the rich legacy of one of California’s oldest continuously-operating missions.