Volunteer
Volunteer applications and training have been suspended during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Volunteers at the Humane Society of Portage County provide immeasurable affection, devotion, and time to our animals. In return, they receive the unconditional love of animals who need the touch of a gentle hand, or the satisfaction of knowing that their volunteer work assisted us in providing food, comfort and veterinary care to animals in need.
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, we ask that volunteers be able to commit to 4 hours of service per month for a 3-month commitment to the shelter. A 3-month commitment can take on many forms and we will work with interested individuals to develop a schedule that works for both parties. Daily starting at 8:00 AM for dog walking and 11:00 AM for cat socialization. Volunteers are scheduled for specific duties and shifts.
We look forward to welcoming you to our volunteer team! If you have any further questions about the volunteer program, please feel free to contact the Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer.coordinator@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
- 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
- Enter starting and finishing volunteer time
- Volunteers enter through the side door on the parking lot side of the building.
- 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 of the shelter, we ask that volunteers be able to commit to 4 hours of service per month for a 3-month commitment to the shelter. A 3-month commitment can take on many forms, and we will work with interested individuals to develop a schedule that works for both parties. Current volunteers average 4 hours per month and shifts are offered daily.
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 4 hours a month for 3 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.
