Volunteer
Our volunteer program has changed significantly.
Our experiences over the years have paved the way the shelter operates. As a result, volunteer needs have changed. Also, we are starting with a smaller group of volunteers and training them to meet the needs of our animals and visitors. We are accepting volunteer applications and channeling them where we need the most help and participation.
Volunteers at the Humane Society of Portage County provide immeasurable affection, devotion and time to animals. In return, volunteers receive the unconditional love of animals who need the touch of a gentle hand, or the satisfaction of knowing their volunteer work assisted us in providing food, comfort and veterinary care to animals in need. We recently adjusted our volunteer need to include reception/greeters (on Tuesday & Thursday afternoons), experienced dog walkers, housekeeping (laundry room) assistants and event helpers.
Become a Volunteer
We welcome anyone 18 years or older who would like to volunteer their time and is interested in making a difference.
Because of the time involved in training and the fast-paced environment the shelter is, the majority of our volunteer opportunities are three-to-four-hour shifts Monday through Friday. Dog walking shifts start at 1PM and cat socialization shifts start at 11AM. We ask volunteers to commit to 6 or more hours of service a month for a six-month period. The six-month commitment can take on many forms and we will work with interested individuals to develop a schedule that works for both parties.
Volunteers are trained and scheduled for specific duties and shifts. All dog walkers must complete dog walker training, and a check walk before walking dogs solo.
We look forward to welcoming you to our volunteer team! If you have any further question about the volunteer program, please feel free to contact our Executive Director by email at executive.director@hspcwi.org
Common Duties
- Assist HSPC staff as needed
- Follow all instructions given by an HSPC staff member
- Always read and adhere to appropriate signs and cage cards
- Notify an HSPC staff member about any medical or behavioral issues noticed in a shelter animal
Volunteer Requirements
- 18 years or older
- Attend Volunteer Orientation
- Ability to work independently
- Need to be responsible and dependable
- Willing to adhere to HSPC policies/procedures/protocols which include signing a release of liability, and a confidentiality agreement
- Need to have proof of an up-to-date tetanus vaccination (do not need to have in order to attend orientation)
Common Directions
- Wear appropriate clothing including full-length pants and closed-toe shoes
- Check in using the Volgistics terminal with your assigned number
- Your volunteer shifts will be scheduled. Arrive at the shelter according to your assigned schedule
- Check in at the front desk during open shelter hours
- If the shelter is closed, please come to the side door on the parking lot side of the building and ring the doorbell
- Do not hesitate to ask questions of any HSPC staff member – they are available to ensure you have an enjoyable and fulfilling volunteer experience
Volunteer FAQ
I am not 18, can I still volunteer?
We welcome anyone 18 years or older who would like to volunteer their time and is interested in making a difference. Our volunteer program for youthful volunteers is currently under review.
How do I sign up to become a volunteer?
Fill out the Online Volunteer Application to get started.
When is the next volunteer orientation?
Do I have to commit to a certain number of hours to volunteer?
Because of the time involved in training and the fast-paced environment the shelter is, the majority of our volunteer opportunities are three-to-four-hour shifts Monday through Friday. Dog walking shifts start at 1PM and cat socialization shifts start at 11AM. We ask volunteers to commit to 6 or more hours of service a month for a six-month period. The six-month commitment can take on many forms and we will work with interested individuals to develop a schedule that works for both parties.Because of the time involved in training and the fast-paced environment the shelter is, the majority of our volunteer opportunities are three-to-four-hour shifts Monday through Friday. Dog walking shifts start at 1PM and cat socialization shifts start at 11AM. We ask volunteers to commit to 6 or more hours of service a month for a six-month period. The six-month commitment can take on many forms and we will work with interested individuals to develop a schedule that works for both parties.
When can I volunteer?
Shifts vary by the type of volunteer duty. Each volunteer will have a scheduled shift.
I was a volunteer before, but I haven’t volunteered in a while. Do I have to go through orientation again?
Yes. Everyday volunteers help improve the lives of animals at HSPC! Each volunteer plays a vital role in the success of our shelter. Due to the time involved in training and continual changes that happen at the shelter, we ask that volunteers commit to at least 6 hours a month for 6 months to stay an active volunteer. Volunteers who do not meet this requirement will need to be retrained to become an active volunteer again. This is to ensure that you are kept up to date on changes that are made at the shelter and that you don’t forget what you’ve already learned.
I am a student who doesn’t live in the area over the summer, do I have to go through orientation again when I return in the fall?
No, but please let us know the dates you will be gone by contacting the Volunteer Coordinator via email at volunteer.coordinator@hspcwi.org. That way when you return you can check back and be updated on any changes you may have missed over the summer and have a brief refresher course.
I leave for a few months over the winter, do I have to go through orientation again when I return?
No, but please let us know the dates you will be gone by contacting the Volunteer Coordinator via email at volunteer.coordinator@hspcwi.org. That way when you return you can check back and be updated on any changes you may have missed over the winter and have a brief refresher course.
