CONSIDER JOINING OUR VOLUNTEER TEAM!

So much to do . . . every single day of the year! HSJC volunteers contribute to the care of the shelter’s animals in a variety of ways. We value each and every person and the gift they give through their time and talent! Some of the opportunities available to volunteers are listed below. However, because we are fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers, there are not always positions available. The Volunteer Coordinator keeps applications for six months and will contact applicants as positions become available. Applications may be obtained at the shelter or by clicking on the following link to submit online.

14 & 15 Years Old

Must volunteer with a parent/guardian, and only for specific roles

16 & 17 Years Old

May volunteer solo with parent/guardian consent

18 Years and Older

May volunteer in any capacity

Volunteers must be 14 years old or older.

We ask volunteers for a long-term commitment to volunteering and cannot always accommodate those that wish to complete short-term service requirements.

Getting Started is Easy!

Becoming a volunteer is simple, and we’ll guide you every step of the way.

  1. Submit a volunteer application on our website.
  2. Visit the shelter for a tour and to learn more about our programs.
  3. Complete our online orientation, including a brief training quiz.
  4. Schedule hands-on training based on available opportunities.

Before you know it, you’ll be making a difference in the lives of the animals at the Humane Society of Jefferson County!

Kitty Crew

Cat volunteers play an important role in keeping our feline residents happy, healthy, and comfortable while they wait for their forever homes. Volunteers help feed cats and kittens, clean our three community cat rooms, refresh food and water, scoop litter boxes, and, of course, spend plenty of time giving love, attention, and enrichment to the cats in our care.

Whether you’re an early bird or have more time later in the day, we have both morning and afternoon volunteer shifts available, making it easy to find a schedule that works for you while making a meaningful difference for our cats.

Bark Brigade

Dog volunteers play a vital role in keeping our canine residents happy, healthy, and comfortable while they wait for their forever homes. Volunteers help clean and sanitize kennels, set up fresh blankets and toys, and assist staff with daily care tasks to keep the dog area running smoothly.

One of the most rewarding parts of volunteering is spending time with the dogs. Volunteers take them for leashed walks around the property, play with them in our fenced-in yards, and provide the exercise, enrichment, and one-on-one attention they need while waiting for their perfect family. Afternoon volunteers may also help with tasks such as dog baths, tidying kennels, and other daily projects as needed.

Because of the nature of working with dogs, volunteers must be 16 years or older to participate. We offer both morning and afternoon volunteer shifts, making it easy to find a schedule that works for you.

Squeak Squad

These volunteers help care for our littlest critters here at the shelter. This often includes rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, and birds. Our small animals need their cages cleaned or tidied, fresh food (plus salad!) and water, and lots of attention as they adjust to shelter life.

Tidy Tails

Volunteers help with the very important job of helping keep our shelter supplies clean. These volunteers spend their time bouncing between loads of laundry, cleaning dishes, and taking plenty of breaks to socialize the kitties in our community cat rooms.

Kitty Crew – PetSmart Satellite Adoption Center

Volunteers in Dane County also support the HSJC by helping take care of the cats we bring to PetSmart West in Madison. Besides cleaning the cat cages, the socialization they provide while they cuddle and play with adoptable cats make a world of difference for these homeless kitties.

Grounds Gurus

Do you love being outside and beautifying outdoor spaces? We are always looking for more volunteers willing to help us with general lawn upkeep including mowing the lawn, weeding, and trimming branches along our walking trail.

Party Animals

Not interested or able to help with shelter roles? No problem! We have multiple special events every month. Volunteers assist our Fundraising and Outreach Coordinator at these events in a variety of ways, from checking people in and handling payments, walking/holding an animal, serving food, and pretty much anything under the sun! These volunteers get to have lots of fun attending the event, while also being part of the team making it a success!