Youth Volunteers

Our youth volunteers bring a special energy to our Shelter. With so much to do at SFAS and so many animals to socialize, our 12 to 15 year-olds give it all they’ve got. Our youth can work in nearly all of our volunteer roles, with the help of a chaperone. This is a great team-building and bonding experience, not just with animals, but with each other.  

While we don’t have ongoing volunteer roles for youth aged 6-12, they can attend an “Experience the Shelter” event with a parent or guardian, other friends or family. This is a one-time event that can last from 2 to 4 hours. Email us for more information. Our Humane Education team may also be available for a larger group tour at the Shelter or visit to a school location; learn more about our Humane Education program.

Learn other Ways to Help Animals at the Shelter and in the community without becoming a longer-term volunteer.

If you are at least 12 years old, have a chaperone, and are ready to join a volunteer program where you’ll learn about animals and the world of animal sheltering, we would love to have you join us. Here’s how to get started:

Youth Volunteer and Chaperone Requirements

• Applicants between the ages of 12 and 15 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (18+). Both individuals must create a Better Impact profile and attend training for their desired volunteer roles. 

• Those wanting to handle animals must attend specific handling classes provided by the Shelter.

• Applicants must be willing to follow organizational policies for the safety and well-being of the animals and other people at SFAS locations.

• Chaperones (18+) and youth volunteers have the option of purchasing a new volunteer apron for $10, which you may take home; communal aprons will be provided if you do not wish to purchase one. 

Application Process

• Chaperones will create an account through Better Impact, our Shelter’s volunteer scheduling software. Use the same link to register the youth volunteer for a separate account.

• After registration, you can move through Better Impact‘s calendar links to access the training requirements for the many volunteer programs. 

• You are welcomed as a SFAS volunteer, a vital part of the care and enrichment of our Shelter pets!

 

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Volunteers 16+     Groups     One Time Events