Volunteer
Since the Humane Association began inviting people to volunteer, many have answered the call. For those who help out at the shelter, the work is often physical and exhausting--but the reward is phenomenal.
The Humane Association simply could not survive without the help of dedicated, caring animal lovers just like you who generously volunteer their time. From cleaning the cat rooms to doing dishes and feeding the animals to fundraising, our volunteers improve the quality of life of many homeless pets that are sheltered every year. All volunteers are required to attend a volunteer meeting. And, like the staff, every volunteer must remember our animals are always the number one priority. Call or stop in the shelter and leave your information and the Volunteer Coordinator will call you to confirm your attendance at the next volunteer meeting. There you will fill out an application, interview with the shelter director, and if a fit is found, you will begin to volunteer shortly after that.
On-site Volunteer Protocol
1. On-site volunteers shall be at least 18 years of age (exceptions may be made for those ages 16 and 17, with the following provisions:
A) currently enrolled as full-time students;
B) submit a volunteer release form with parental consent executed;
C) have a personal interview with the shelter director).
2. All volunteers shall have major medical coverage, either in their own right or through their parents' or guardians' health insurance; The Shelter assumes no responsibility for accidents and/or injuries involving volunteers working on-site (volunteers will be required to sign a release form acknowledging this before commencing duties).
3. Volunteers may sign up for two-hour time slots, available from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Mon-Sun; volunteers who have committed themselves to a certain day and time are expected to show up or to give at least 24 hours' notice.
4. There shall be on-site during any given two-hour time slot no more than three (3) volunteers, with each being assigned to a member of the shelter staff, whom he/she will shadow/assist for the duration.
5. Volunteer tasks include
A) sweeping/mopping floors,
B) cleaning cages,
C) scooping/changing cat gravel,
D) scrubbing litter pans,
E) dishing food,
F) changing bedding,
G) prepping (but not doing) laundry, all under the direction and supervision of a staff member.
6. Should a volunteer find a task unmanageable, every effort will be made to find another task more suited to his/her ability.
7. All animals are to be treated and handled gently and respectfully.
8. Volunteers are welcome to visit, play and socialize with the animals once their volunteer shift is over.
