Volunteer FAQ's

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How much of a commitment will I be required to make?

The level of volunteer participation can range from minimal to considerable. A volunteer can choose an ongoing regular schedule, or can lend support in one-time events or on an as-needed basis. All options are valuable, and we can work with you according to our needs at the time. Our goal, however, is to encourage ongoing, responsible participation.

How does the volunteer process work?

All interested volunteers should complete a Volunteer Profile Form. This tells us when you are available, and if you have any particular interests, talents, or limitations. You will receive a call from a member of the Volunteer Program to discuss your preferences, requirements, special needs, commitment level, background, and availability. We’d also like to meet you in person to talk about our shelter and orient you to your volunteer tasks. We want you to feel as comfortable and at home at the shelter as possible.

My schedule is unpredictable, and I can’t guarantee that I can be somewhere every week. Can I still help out?

Yes. We will do our best to provide flexibility to meet your schedule and our needs to ensure a worthwhile experience. You may participate in a variety of volunteer activities. We do ask that, once you make a commitment to any activity, you do your best to follow through or notify us right away if your schedule changes and you can’t attend.

Why should I volunteer at fundraising events?

It costs in excess of $150,000 a year to provide care to the homeless and abused cats and dogs at the shelter each and every year. The Humane Society receives no government funding. That means that the money we need to stay open we must raise ourselves. Fundraising is done through the generosity and support of our donors, and through fundraising events. Fundraising events are critical to the financial stability of the organization, and ensure that the animals in our care will be safe for years to come.

What kinds of activities can I participate in as a volunteer?

Click here for a complete list of current volunteer opportunities. Many need to be performed on a daily or weekly basis. Others are on an as-needed basis.

What is your Friends of the Humane Society Auxiliary group?

Our Friends Auxiliary is a fun group of volunteers who meet periodically and organize fund-raising and public awareness events. They organize things such as bake sales, our annual yard sale, participation in local parades, pictures with Santa Paws, etc. They come up with new fund-raising ideas and ways to get the word out about what the Humane Society does.

What kind of a commitment is required?

It is up to you to decide how many hours you would like to volunteer. All we ask is that before you agree to volunteer, please make sure you have the time available to offer.

How old do I have to be?

Typically, in order to volunteer at the shelter, you must be at least 18 years of age. If you are under 18 and would still like to volunteer, you can do so as long as you obtain the consent of your parent or guardian and are accompanied by an adult while you are volunteering. In addition, from time to time we have projects which volunteers can help with at home. The Volunteer Coordinator will be able to talk to you about the age limitations and tasks available.

How do I become a shelter volunteer?

Complete the Volunteer Profile Form and submit it to our Volunteer Coordinator.

Are there other ways to help?

Absolutely! We always need supplies and money to properly care for the animals that enter our shelter every day. Like most shelters, our greatest need is money. We receive no government funding and depend solely upon the generosity of our kind donors and our fund-raising activities. Your support is extremely important to keep the shelter doors open. The Humane Society of Greene County is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization

Here is a list of things we need.