Thank you for your interest in volunteering with us. We are always looking for responsible and dedicated people who love animals and want to be involved in the community. In order to lend a paw, Helping Hands recommends that volunteers
1. Be at least 10 years old (must be accompanied by a parent at all times.) Ages 16 and up may volunteer on their own.
*Note: Children under the age of 10 are not allowed to participate in volunteering at the shelter, offsite or special events. No exceptions will be made. We encourage those interested to please look into our Foster Care Program, Project Ideas, Volunteering at Home or Wish List collection. Thank you.
2. Complete and submit a volunteer application.
3. Attend a volunteer orientation.
Breakdown: (one hour total)
30 minutes class session
15 minutes walk-through and tour with mentors
15 minutes dog or cat socializing (your choice)
Participants are encouraged to stay until 8pm but may leave at 7:30
This completes the orientation process. Volunteers are able to maintain their own schedules and are not required to donate a specific amount of time each week/month.
Tuesday and Wednesday late nights (5-8pm) following orientation is a great time to start volunteering on your own. Jayme, and other volunteer mentors will be available to help you get started as a volunteer. We want to make your volunteer experience one that you and our pets will enjoy.
Orientation is held the first and third Tuesday of every month at 6:30 pm in the shelter lobby. Any person under 18 years of age MUST be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to orientation. After orientation the applicant is free to volunteer on their own (age permitting).
At the orientation, volunteers will learn about the different opportunities available, the benefits of volunteering and what to expect as a volunteer. You are encouraged to bring family members who will be helping you so that they understand your family’s commitment. Invite a friend or a neighbor who shares your desire to make a difference in the lives of homeless animals.
If you have not already submitted a volunteer application and release, please bring your completed forms with you to the orientation.If you have questions or need additional information, please contact our volunteer coordinator, Jayme Walshire, at 785.233.7325 or by email at jaymew@hhhstopeka.org.
Check our calendar for the next orientation date.
Print Volunteer Application
*Note: Volunteer work cannot be counted toward or used to fill court ordered community service hours. You must contact Yvonne or Nikki to schedule work, call 785.233.7325.
You must be 18 years old to perform community service hours at our shelter.