Volunteering

Learn new skills, meet new people, make a difference in the life of an animal...

Purpose

The MCHS Volunteer Program provides support in the kennel, office, and "behind the scenes."  Volunteers are a critical part of our daily functions and are part of who we are; the organization relies on volunteers for their support and dedication to the animals.

Volunteer opportunities are available for adults (18+) and youth (15-17). Volunteers must first attend an orientation training session. Orientations are held monthly, so please allow up to 4 weeks to receive an invitation. 

Please scroll down to the appropriate section to see available opportunities and to fill out an application. Any questions, please email dpoole@mchumane.org.

Eligibility
Volunteers 18 years of age and over can participate in all aspects of the volunteer program. Volunteers under the age of 18 are not allowed to work directly with the animals; volunteers who are at least 15 years of age may assist in other areas of volunteering.  Volunteers may choose the area they wish to help in but must be approved by the Volunteer Coordinator.

Volunteer Requirements
Volunteers are required to complete an application form and attend an orientation. Volunteers must sign a Release of Liability form before beginning their training. All assignments are arranged with the Volunteer Coordinator to ensure the best placement for both the volunteer and the organization. Volunteers may be terminated if work fails to meet acceptable standards, if the volunteer fails to follow the proper procedures and rules established by the organization, or if the time commitment is not met.

Training and Scheduling
Training is provided by MCHS staff or volunteers. The new volunteer will be taught all of the skills necessary for his/her assignment. After the training, the Volunteer Coordinator will make an evaluation to determine how best to utilize a volunteer's time and skills. We encourage the volunteer to explore many different aspects of the MCHS volunteer program and not to limit their volunteer experience to just one area.

Time Commitment
We ask each volunteer to make a 1-year commitment with a minimum of 2 hours per week. (Some special projects may require less than a 1-year commitment and are arranged by the Volunteer Coordinator).

Uniform
All volunteers will be supplied with a volunteer shirt and nametag that must be worn at all times while volunteering. Volunteers working with animals should not wear stretch pants, sweat pants, skirts, or shorts while volunteering. A denim-type material is recommended. No open-toed shoes are permitted, and sturdy, thick-soled shoes are recommended.

Equal Opportunity
The MCHS's Volunteer Program offers many diverse opportunities for our volunteers, and we welcome and encourage participation from all members of the community.

If you have questions about the volunteer program, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator by emailing dpoole@mchumane.org