Volunteer

The volunteers who assist the Humane Society of Cambria County take on a variety of roles and their time and effort is truly appreciated. Without them, our shelter would not be able to provide the best service and care possible to our animals and visitors from the community. The reward gained from caring for shelter animals is only outdone when an animal finds a new and loving furever home!

There are many ways you can be a volunteer. From dog walking and cat cuddling, to doing dishes and yard maintenance, we will always appreciate a helping hand. Volunteers are also needed off-site at special events and serving on our shelter committees. There is a volunteer opportunity for everyone.

Consider making a difference! Volunteer with the Humane Society of Cambria County.

Already a Volunteer?

Go to VicNet

Steps to Become a Volunteer

  1. Complete and submit the volunteer application to HSCC
  2. Application will be reviewed and approved by Volunteer Coordinator
  3. Applicant will be informed of the approval or denial of the application
  4. If approved; the applicant will meet with the Coordinator for Volunteer Orientation. They are scheduled every other week on Tuesdays from 5:00-5:30 p.m. or Saturdays 10:00-10:30 a.m. If choosing to work with our dogs, the applicant will be required to complete a dog handling class. They are scheduled every other Saturday at 10:30 a.m. following Volunteer Orientation.
  5. Individual is ready to begin volunteer work with us!

Before submitting a volunteer application, please review the following requirements:

Volunteers must be at least 12 years of age or older. Volunteers between 12 and 15 years of age must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Volunteers may independently volunteer at the age of 16 with cats ONLY. Volunteers under 18 years of age must have consent from his or her parent(s) or guardian(s). Volunteers may volunteer with dogs at 18 years of age or older.

Volunteers assisted by Direct Support Professionals must be accompanied by his or her Direct Support Professional at all times. Direct Support Professionals are required to complete all necessary training along with his or her client to volunteer. Direct Support Professionals may oversee ONLY one of his or her clients per volunteer shift. 

Click the button below to complete our Online Volunteer Application. It will be submitted directly to our Volunteer Coordinator. Thanks for wanting to make a difference!

Online Volunteer Application

Volunteer Orientation

Volunteer Orientation is to help newcomers to the shelter become acquainted with the building, the staff, and the every day operations. Our Volunteer Coordinator provides a tour of the shelter while describing the cleaning, handling, and administrative processes that happen every day. It is a great way for those wishing to become involved with the Humane Society of Cambria County to jump start their experience with us!

Volunteer Orientation is held at least once a week. Sessions last approximately 30 minutes. Orientations are limited to 6 participants. You will be contacted  by the Volunteer Coordinator to confirm your upcoming Volunteer Orientation after completing your Volunteer Application. Please wait to hear from our Volunteer Coordinator before attending a Volunteer Orientation or any further training.

Dog Handling Course

Dog Handling will help those who are wishing to work closer with our dogs. This course will teach you the best handling techniques practiced at our shelter including removing dogs from their kennel and putting them back in their kennel, building a relationship with our dogs, walking dogs, and even breaking up a dog fight. Dog Handling is not for everyone and should only be practiced if all parties involved are safe. Our Dog Handling Course aims to ensure safety and enjoyment!

The Dog Handling Course is every other week. Sessions last approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Courses are limited to 6 participants. You may sign up after completing Volunteer Orientation. Please wait to receive confirmation before attending a Dog Handling Course.

Find a Focus

The focuses you see below each fulfill a vital role in our mission. Each focus concentrates on a specific area of interest in order to benefit our animals and assist our staff members. If you would like to volunteer in any of the following areas please indicate on your Volunteer Application.

Shelter Work

Every day cages are cleaned, dishes and litter pans are washed, laundry is done, and floors are mopped. Animals are provided food, water, and fresh supplies. Animals are removed from their pens to be exercised and socialized.

Dog Walking & Cat Cuddling

Our animals are in need of exercise and socialization on a daily basis to help them be more adoptable! Shelter dogs enjoy playtime in one of our dog yards or a walk on our walking trail and surrounding areas. Shelter cats enjoy chasing after toys or getting into a play group in one of our cuddle rooms.

Community Events & Outreach

Our team is always looking for fun and new ways to generate funds for the shelter. Have a background in event planning or fundraising for other organizations? Do you like to bring people together for a common cause? This is the place for you.

Grounds & Facilities

Are you good with your hands? Have experience in construction, plumbing, heating, or grounds crew maintenance? Then we need your help! Our property can always use some sprucing up and we need your expertise to do so.

Thank you to our generous sponsors: