We Love Our Volunteers!
Our volunteers are important and valued members of the HSJC team. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities available that will allow you to make a real difference in the lives of the animals.
It's Easy to Become a Volunteer
Click the following links for an online copy of our volunteer application (PDF | DOC) and cover letter (PDF | DOC), or stop in at the shelter to complete a volunteer application. You may also contact us by phone or e-mail and request than an application be sent to you. (Please note that the HSJC reserves the right to refuse or terminate an individual's volunteer status, depending upon suitability and conduct.) Our Volunteer Coordinator will review your application and contact you to discuss your availability and your areas of interest. Volunteer opportunities include, but are not limited to, the following:
SHELTER HELP: Every day of the year, the shelter staff spends the morning cleaning and disinfecting kennels and cages, washing a great many food and water bowls, doing a minimum of 16 loads of laundry, cleaning the office, and tending to the feeding and care of our animal guests. It's a big job, and volunteers who lend a hand are greatly appreciated! Afternoons at the shelter are busy as well, and volunteers are always a welcome presence.
VET TRANSPORTS: The HSJC's goal is for all animals to be spayed or neutered before going to their new adoptive homes. Volunteers provide much needed assistance by transporting animals to and/or from one of the local veterinary clinics for surgery. You can be part of the solution to animal overpopulation while also directly benefiting individual animals.
SPECIAL EVENTS/FUNDRAISING: Throughout the year, the HSJC initiates or participates in various community and fundraising events. As a non-profit organization we rely very heavily on these activities to raise money and garner publicity for the shelter. From walking in a parade to helping out at a dog wash to assisting at one of our Rabies Clinics, these special events provide a fun way for volunteers to help out and be involved.
OFFICE ASSISTANT: If you have office experience we can put it to good use. Volunteers perform copying, collating, and other clerical tasts; computer knowledge is a plus!
SATELLITE ADOPTION BOOTH: The HSJC's satellite adoption booth is located at PetSmart West in Madison. Volunteers spend part of a Saturday manning a table at the booth, providing information to the store's customers about the shelter and adoption. You may sign up to cover as many or as few Saturdays as is convenient for you. In addition, PetSmart West houses cats who are available for adoption from the HSJC; volunteers are needed to stop in and spot clean cages and socialize with the cats.
FOSTER CARE: Approved volunteer applicants may provide temporary foster care to shelter animals (predominantly kittens or mother cats with litters). This frees up much needed cage space at the shelter while also positively affecting the health and socialization of the fostered animals. We furnish all food, supplies, and instructions -- you provide the temporary housing, love, and care.
GROUNDS AND MAINTENANCE: If you've got a green thumb or have carpentry or other skills, we want to talk to you! Ongoing maintenance and groundskeeping are an area where volunteers are always needed and appreciated.
If you have any other special talents, we'd love to hear from you. Volunteers and their contributions are an essential part of the HSJC's operations. Our hardworking and friendly staff is very appreciative of any and all volunteer assistance.