Thank you for your interest in supporting our animals! Whether you are a "dog person," a "cat person," or a "people person," there is a place for you at PAWS.
Getting Started: Basic Requirements
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Age: You must be at least 13 years old to volunteer with out Cat Care program. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a trained parent or guardian (21+) at all times.
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Expectations: We ask volunteers to commit to at least 30 hours per year of volunteer service with PAWS. This translates to a minimum of one shift per month.
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Documentation: All volunteers must Complete an Application, sign a Code of Conduct, and complete online training as well as attend in-person mentor sessions.
Choose Your Path
We offer three primary routes for new volunteers to get involved immediately:
1. Cat Care
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Daily Tasks: Feeding, cleaning living areas, scooping litter boxes, doing laundry, and cat socialization.
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Growth: Train to become a Cat Adoption Helper Volunteer, Cat Adoption Counselor, or Cat Shift Leader.
2. Dog Care
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Daily Tasks: Walking dogs, feeding and watering, and generally providing enrichment and exercise for our dogs.
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Growth: Level up to Dog Adoption Counselor or Dog Shift Leader.
3. Front Desk
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Daily Tasks: Greeting visitors, answering phones, processing donations, and completing important administrative projects.
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Impact: You are the face of PAWS, playing a vital role in assisting community members and animals in need.
4. Community Service & Special Programs
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Court-Ordered Community Service: If you are completing hours for legal reasons, please Review Our Guidelines before applying.
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Internships & Work Study: Academic-based opportunities are available periodically. Learn more here.
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Group Volunteering: For corporate or school groups wanting a one-day project. Request a Group Event.
Additional Ways to Help
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Fostering: Open your home to a cat or dog in need. Learn more about Fostering.
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Facilities & Landscaping: Help with "behind the scenes" work like laundry, dishes, or seasonal yard work.
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Hold a Fundraising Event: Small fundraisers are an incredible help to our animals. A bake sale or car wash can help us offset medical expenses for our animals. We are happy to provide you with PAWS materials you may need. If your group would like to organize a fundraiser, please contact our Events and Marketing Manager.