There are two rules for participating in the volunteer program at The Walt Disney Family Museum. First, have fun. Second, learn something new. For some volunteers, only the first rule truly applies. Join us to have fun and learn, and as Volunteer Joseph Titizian demonstrates how you might get more out of your experience than you expect...
My name is Joseph Titizian and I love Disneyland. I have always loved Disneyland, so much so that my dream job was to become an Imagineer. I had the privilege to work at the Park on the classic attraction “Autopia” as well as the now retired attraction “Honey, I Shrunk the Audience” during my college years. Unfortunately, I did not get to become an Imagineer after graduating from UC Berkeley with a degree in Architecture, but I did get to wear the famous “Plaid” working in Guest Relations!
Having had a lifelong passion for Walt Disney and his company, I was very excited to hear that The Walt Disney Family Museum would open in San Francisco, where I now live. My first visit to the Museum was on a cold November evening in 2004 when Ron and Diane Disney Miller first shared their plans for the proposed museum. That first night, the old army barrack was just an empty shell, but over the next few years I witnessed firsthand its transformation into the stunningly beautiful and high-tech facility that now exists. I was there on Opening Day, and if they didn’t have to close, I would have stayed all night! I have since gone back many, many times taking my friends and family members along as well. When the museum started accepting volunteers I applied immediately and was honored to be accepted into the inaugural team. It is a privilege to share the life and legacy of Walt Disney with guests to the museum, and especially exciting to share the details and history of Walt’s Park.
When D23, The Official Disney Fan Club, announced that it would be holding an event to celebrate 55 years of Disneyland history, I knew I had to be there. On the second day, the final presentation before our dinner break was a surprise preview of the upcoming D23 Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament. Steven Clark, the Head of D23, asked the ballroom full of Disney fans trivia questions. Those who answered correctly were asked to come on stage. Out of 1300 people, I never thought I would have the chance to participate and was thrilled to be chosen.
Truth be told, I really thought it would end quickly—but I love games and was having fun. I was surprised when round 1 ended and I had survived the initial contest knowing answers to all but one question (I found out that the number 30 is painted on the runway outside of “Soarin’ Over California” at Disney California Adventure). The next round was called the “Lightning McQueen” round in which we were each given a flag to raise if we knew the answer. The lightning round was supposed to last only 3 minutes, but due to technical errors, the game probably went on for closer to 5 minutes. I found myself answering question after question correctly and the audience really started cheering me on. The funniest point for me was when they asked the question, “How many horses are there on King Arthur’s Carousel” to which I answered correctly, “72 Horses”. I was told that was the incorrect answer. I immediately looked over to the judges, and asked “Are you sure?!?” The audience really seemed to enjoy that and continued to root for me as the final results were tallied. I was in shock when they announced I had won the game! Among the wonderful prizes, the final prize was two tickets to the 2011 D23 Expo in Anaheim and a spot in the semi-finals of the Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament!
I will be spending the next nine months brushing up on all things Disney. You will probably find me re-reading my Disney books, watching Disney movies for a second, third, or fourth time, and exploring the galleries at the Walt Disney Family Museum. By the way, King Arthur’s Carousel did have 72 horses, originally! They recently removed four horses to accommodate guests with special needs, so there are currently only 68 horses on the carousel. In trivia, it’s the trick questions that really throw you!
Wish Me Luck! I look forward to seeing you all at The Walt Disney Family Museum!
If you would like to learn more about volunteering with us and have fun while you brush up on your Disney knowledge, you are invited to complete our volunteer interest form on our website and see where your passion and knowledge can take you.