Volunteers

Volunteers make a difference! We rely on the hard work, love, and commitment of our volunteers. 

Already a volunteer? Login to our volunteer portal here.

Please read the information below to see the volunteer guidelines and how to get started! Once you have reviewed the information below, you may fill out the volunteer application. Please know that it may take some time for our team to respond due to the high number of applications received, and we appreciate your patience!

Volunteer Age Guidelines

  • Age 16 and older: can volunteer with no special supervision.
  • Age 13 to 15: must volunteer with an adult that is 18 years or older. This adult must also go through the volunteer training process. 
  • Age 12 and under – cannot volunteer at the shelter. Please check out these volunteer opportunities outside the shelter. 

Volunteer Hours

Volunteer shifts are available Monday – Saturday. Once volunteers have completed 50 hours, Sunday shifts may be available. The minimum requirement for being an active volunteer is to work 2 shifts, twice per month. Each shift is 2 hours long.

Virtual Volunteer Orientation & In-Person Training

You will start by completing an application that includes two virtual videos: an orientation video and a species-specific video. After each video, you will be asked a series of questions. Upon completion, you will gain access to our calendar to sign up for an in-person group training session.

The in-person training will involve hands-on experience with a small group and a volunteer mentor. During this session, you will learn about our animal shelter, the volunteer program, and the various roles available.

After completing all the training, you are required to sign up for two shifts with a volunteer mentor. Once you’ve completed these shifts, you can schedule shifts that work for you while meeting the minimum participation requirements.

Volunteer Application

Volunteers are expected to start by primarily working with one species. Please choose one of the applications below to apply.

Volunteer Positions

Volunteer opportunities are categorized by groups. All volunteers are expected to help with basic cleaning including laundry, dishes, and minimum of spot cleaning for animals.  

Beginner (entry level position)

Moderate (requires additional training after 25 hours)

  • Rabies Clinic Assistants 
  • Outreach/ Special Events Mentor
  • Co-location (Emergency) Shelter Assistant
  • Animal Transporter (must have valid driver’s license)
  • Animal Enrichment: grooming, prepping interactive toys, long walks, "Doggy Day Out" session
  • Meet N Greeter/Adoption Counselor

Advanced (requires additional training after 50 hours)

  • Assisting with Foster Program
  • Assisting with Rescue/Transfer Program
  • Dog and Cat Training 

Mentor (requires additional training after 100 hours and demonstration of shelter knowledge and leadership, appointed by Program Coordinator)

  • Training Mentor - assist with the volunteer training of groups and individuals
  • Volunteer Mentor - “Go To” person for new volunteers and assists with coaching of new volunteers
  • Other advanced duties as assigned by the OCAS Program Coordinator

 

Please email volunteer@orangecountync.gov with any questions about volunteering.