Volunteer Project Catalog
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Accepting Volunteers? Yes! At-home Service Projects are accepted year-round! 2. Program Description and Goals Our At-Home Service Projects program offers a unique way for volunteers to support shelter animals from the comfort of their own homes. These projects provide essential enrichment, comfort, and care items that help improve the well-being of animals while they wait for their forever homes. Whether crafting cozy blankets, assembling enrichment toys, or preparing homemade treats, volunteers play a vital role in enhancing the lives of shelter pets. Directions for some of the projects, please click through to the website. https://pasadenahumane.org/get-involved/kids/service-projects-all-ages/ Most common items: - DIY Fleece Cat Beds = 2 hours - (5) Cat Sock Toys = 1 hour - Cat Trap Cover = 7 hours - Beach / Bath Towel = 2 hours - Snuffle Mat = 3 hours - (1) Bag of High-Value Dog Treats = 5 hours - Large Container of Pumpkin Puree = 3 hours - Canned Animal Food, Unopened = 2 hours Also needed: - 5 lb. bag of white rice = 2 hours per bag - Animal-themed children's books (all levels) = 1 hour per book - Fleece material = 3 hours per yard - New baby socks = 2 hours per 6 pairs - Men's calf socks = 2 hours per 6 pairs - Empty toilet paper rolls = 1 hour per 6 - Standard size toothbrushes = 1 hour per 4 - Small package of catnip = 2 hours per package - Edible catnip bubbles (for cats) = 2 hours per bottle - Pipe cleaners (any size) = 2 hours per pack - Gallon Food Storage Bags = 3 hours per pack - Sink Mats (with square holes) = 3 hours per mat - 1 pack of paper plates = 3 service hours - 1 pack of paper bags = 2 service hours - 2 hand towels = 1 service hour - 4 wash cloths = 1 service hour 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? 🐾 Provide Comfort & Enrichment – Create handmade items such as blankets, beds, and toys to help reduce stress and anxiety for shelter animals. 🎾 Enhance Mental Stimulation – Contribute puzzle feeders, treat-filled Kongs, and DIY toys to keep animals engaged and prevent boredom. 🏡 Increase Community Engagement – Offer a flexible way for individuals, families, school groups, and corporate teams to give back without needing to visit the shelter. 💖 Support Special Needs Pets – Help senior, injured, or anxious animals by making custom enrichment tools tailored to their needs. 🌎 Encourage Sustainability – Use recycled materials and upcycled items to create eco-friendly enrichment projects for shelter pets. 4. Position Outline Completed projects can be turned into the shelter anytime during business hours. You can either leave the items in either of the two large grey bins (one in the underground parking lot and the other on the first floor outside the Shelter Shop), take a photo of these items, and emailing the volunteer@pasadenahumane.org, or, if there is a staff member in the office, you can leave it with them. 5. Skills and Requirements ✅ Creativity & Crafting Skills – Volunteers should enjoy hands-on projects like sewing, knitting, assembling enrichment toys, or making DIY pet treats. ✅ Attention to Detail – Ensuring that items are safe, durable, and appropriate for shelter animals, following provided guidelines. ✅ Ability to Follow Instructions – Volunteers must adhere to shelter-approved patterns, materials, and recipes to ensure consistency and safety for the animals. ✅ Commitment to Quality & Safety – Using pet-safe materials and ensuring that all items meet the shelter’s standards to prevent choking hazards or ingestion risks. ✅ Self-Motivation & Time Management – Since projects are completed at home, volunteers should be able to work independently and complete projects within the requested timeframes. ✅ All Ages Welcome (with supervision if needed) – Great for individuals, families, scout groups, or students seeking community service hours. Some projects may require adult supervision for younger participants. 6. How to Get Involved? You are welcome to start anytime! 7. Benefits to Volunteer 🐾 Make a Meaningful Impact – Help improve the lives of shelter animals by providing them with comfort and enrichment while they wait for their forever homes. 🏡 Volunteer from Anywhere – Enjoy the flexibility of supporting shelter animals without having to visit the shelter—perfect for those with busy schedules or limited mobility. 🎨 Use Your Creativity for a Good Cause – Put your crafting, baking, or DIY skills to work by making handmade blankets, enrichment toys, and pet treats. 🤝 Great for Families & Groups – Ideal for individuals, families, school groups, scout troops, and corporate teams looking for a rewarding community service project. 🎓 Earn Community Service Hours – Many schools, clubs, and organizations accept at-home volunteer work for required service hours. 🐶 Learn More About Animal Welfare – Gain insight into shelter operations and the importance of enrichment, stress reduction, and proper care for homeless animals. 💖 Feel the Reward of Giving Back – Experience the joy of knowing that the items you create are making shelter animals happier, healthier, and more adoptable. 🌱 Promote Sustainability – Many projects encourage upcycling and repurposing materials, reducing waste while benefiting shelter pets. 🏅 Recognition & Appreciation – Dedicated volunteers may receive appreciation certificates or shout-outs in shelter newsletters.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes! At the moment, the biggest need for fosters is with the shelter's large dog population. Also, kitten season (April-Sept.~) is just around the corner, so more opportunities will arise. 2. Program Description and Goals The Foster Program provides temporary, loving homes for animals in need, giving them the care, socialization, and medical support necessary before they are ready for adoption. Foster volunteers play a critical role in helping vulnerable animals thrive outside of the shelter environment, reducing stress, increasing adoptability, and making space for more animals in need. 🐾 Provide individualized care for kittens, puppies, senior pets, or animals recovering from illness, injury, or surgery. 🐾 Improve socialization and behavior by exposing animals to a home environment, making them more adoptable. 🐾 Reduce shelter overcrowding by expanding our ability to care for animals beyond shelter capacity. 🐾 Support special cases such as neonatal kittens, shy or fearful animals, or pets with medical needs. 🐾 Facilitate adoptions by providing foster caregivers with tools to promote and match their foster animals with adopters. 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? The Foster Program is a vital extension of the shelter’s capacity, benefiting both the animals and the organization in several key ways: 🐾 Reduces Shelter Overcrowding – By placing animals in foster homes, more space is available in the shelter for incoming rescues and urgent cases. 🐾 Improves Animal Welfare & Outcomes – Animals in foster care experience less stress, reducing illness and behavioral issues, which increases their chances of adoption. 🐾 Saves Lives – Neonatal kittens, sick or injured animals, and those with special needs receive dedicated care that would be difficult to provide in a shelter setting. 🐾 Increases Adoptions – Foster caregivers help promote animals in their care, often leading to faster adoptions through personal networks and social media. 🐾 Supports Special Cases – Animals needing extra socialization, medical recovery, or behavioral training benefit from individualized attention. 🐾 Enhances Community Engagement – The program brings the community into the shelter’s mission, turning volunteers into advocates and long-term supporters. 4. Position Outline Every foster arrangement and timeline is different depending on the type/species and age of the animal/s. For litters of kittens, it is usually a few weeks that foster volunteers will care for the animals, and then be brought back to the shelter for surgery and adoption. For adult cats and dogs, the timeline is a bit less defined. Once the online training modules have been completed, foster volunteers will be put in contact with the Foster Department to determine the best animal match and timeline. 5. Skills and Requirements 🐾 Patience & Compassion – Ability to care for animals with different needs, personalities, and medical conditions. 🐾 Basic Animal Care Knowledge – Willingness to learn about feeding, grooming, socialization, and recognizing health concerns. 🐾 Time & Availability – Ability to dedicate time for daily care, feeding, and monitoring, depending on the animal’s needs. 🐾 Problem-Solving & Adaptability – Quick thinking when handling unexpected situations, such as illness or behavioral challenges. 🐾 Communication Skills – Responsiveness in providing updates to the shelter and coordinating medical visits or adoption placements. 🐾 Commitment to Shelter Policies – Adherence to foster care guidelines, veterinary instructions, and adoption protocols. ✅ Stable & Pet-Safe Environment – A secure home with space to accommodate a foster pet. ✅ Reliable Transportation – Ability to bring animals to medical appointments at the shelter, adoption events, or shelter check-ins as needed. ✅ Ability to Follow Care Instructions – Administering medications, special diets, or behavioral training as required. ✅ Age Requirement – Must meet the minimum age of 18 ✅ Willingness to Attend Orientation & Training – Completion of foster program onboarding and any required workshops. ✅ Commitment to the Foster Term – Flexibility to foster for the recommended duration (e.g., weeks to months, depending on the animal’s needs). 6. How to Get Involved Volunteers who are interested solely in helping with the Foster program do not need to attend the Meet & Greet session. Prospective volunteers can start on the online training modules and then, when completed, reach out to the Volunteer Services department, volunteer@pasadenahumane.org, to then be connected with the Foster Department. - STEP 1: Once you are on the Foster Care project page, click the blue "VOLUNTEER" button below to access and complete the online Foster Care training modules! The modules include: Infectious Disease Management Training & Foster Care Training. If you are not already signed into your volunteer profile, please sign in after clicking the "VOLUNTEER" button and then click on the red "APPLY NOW" button to begin the online training modules. Please note, you will be prompted to complete the Fear Free Shelters Certification. Please skip this step if you are interested in fostering cats/kittens ONLY. If you are interested in fostering dogs, please complete the Fear Free Shelters certification. The steps to complete the Fear Free Shelters Certification are also included below for your reference. - STEP 2: Fear Free Shelters Certification (please skip this step if you are interested in fostering cats/kittens only). If you are interested in fostering dogs, please complete the Fear Free Shelters certification by following these steps: 1. Download the Volunteer Verification form and fill in with your information: https://pasadenahumanesociety-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/cbriffett_pasadenahumane_org/Esej3puqrshAuZd5pk1bHi4BYbRLbSB8eXcQOq_R6Qa04Q?e=zCgvsC 2. Use this completed verification form to register on the Fear Free Shelter website when prompted: https://fearfreeshelters.com/register/ - STEP 3: Email volunteer@pasadenahumane.org to let us know that you are done with training! If you are interested in fostering dogs, please attach your Fear Free Shelter certificate to this email if you have not already uploaded it to your account. 7. Benefits to Volunteer Fostering provides a rewarding experience that benefits both the animals and the volunteers who care for them. 🐾 Make a Life-Saving Impact – Directly help animals in need, giving them a safe and loving environment. 🐾 Enjoy Animal Companionship – Experience the joy of having a pet without the long-term commitment. 🐾 Emotional Fulfillment – Witness the transformation of animals from scared or sick to happy and adoptable. 🐾 Learn More About Animal Care – Gain hands-on experience with feeding, medical care, and socialization. 📚 Training & Skill Development – Learn about feline/canine behavior, medical care, and enrichment techniques. 📚 Career Exploration – Great for those considering veterinary work, animal welfare, or nonprofit involvement. 📚 Community Service Hours – Fulfill volunteer or school service requirements.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes! Humane Education programs and services have resumed and are currently in need of volunteer help. 2. Program Description and Goals The Humane Education Program at Pasadena Humane is designed to inspire compassion, responsibility, and respect for animals through engaging educational experiences. By teaching children, teens, and adults about animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the role of shelters in the community, we aim to create a more humane and informed society. Through hands-on learning opportunities and community outreach, the program connects people with animals and provides essential knowledge to foster a lifelong commitment to animal welfare. 🐾 Promote Compassion & Empathy – Instill kindness and respect for all animals through positive, interactive experiences. 🐾 Teach Responsible Pet Ownership – Educate the community about proper pet care, spaying/neutering, and lifelong commitment to animals. 🐾 Encourage Advocacy & Volunteerism – Inspire participants to take action by adopting, fostering, volunteering, or advocating for animal welfare. 🐾 Support Safety & Bite Prevention Education – Provide knowledge on safe interactions with animals to reduce fear and prevent injuries. 🐾 Raise Awareness of Shelter & Adoption Services – Help the community understand the shelter’s role in animal rescue and adoption. 🐾 Engage Youth in Animal Welfare Careers – Introduce students to potential careers in veterinary medicine, shelter work, and humane education. 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? The Humane Education Program plays a crucial role in supporting the shelter’s mission by fostering a more informed and compassionate community. Here’s how it benefits the shelter: 🐾 Reduces Pet Surrenders – By educating the public on responsible pet ownership, common reasons for pet relinquishment (such as behavioral issues or lack of training) can be prevented. 🐾 Promotes Adoptions – Increasing awareness of shelter animals and their needs helps potential adopters make informed and lasting adoption decisions. 🐾 Increases Volunteer & Foster Recruitment – Inspires community members, especially students and families, to get involved as volunteers or foster caregivers. 🐾 Enhances Public Support & Advocacy – Encourages people to advocate for animal welfare, support shelter initiatives, and engage in fundraising efforts. 🐾 Reduces Safety Risks & Promotes Positive Interactions – Bite prevention and safe animal handling education decrease the likelihood of injuries, improving interactions between people and pets. 🐾 Encourages Future Animal Welfare Careers – Engaging youth in humane education helps inspire the next generation of veterinarians, shelter professionals, and animal advocates. 4. Position Outline Depending on the program or activity, Humane Education volunteers will assist staff members plan and facilitate curriculum and lesson plans. Typical shift length is 2.5 hours and run on weekday afternoons and weekend mornings. The typical age range for the students in these program ranges from 7-14. 5. Skills & Requirements 📚 Strong Communication & Public Speaking – Comfortable engaging with diverse audiences, including children, teens, and adults. 📚 Passion for Animal Welfare & Education – Enthusiastic about teaching humane values and responsible pet care. 📚 Patience & Adaptability – Ability to work with different age groups and adjust presentations as needed. 📚 Interpersonal & Teamwork Skills – Works well with shelter staff, volunteers, educators, and the public. 📚 Organizational Skills – Helps plan, set up, and facilitate educational activities, presentations, and outreach events. 📚 Comfort with Animals – Ability to safely handle and present shelter animals when needed for educational demonstrations. ✅ Age Requirement – 15 years of age and up. ✅ Completion of Training & Orientation – Must attend training sessions on humane education topics, shelter policies, and presentation techniques. ✅ Commitment to Scheduled Events – Availability to participate in school visits, community outreach, shelter tours, or educational workshops. ✅ Background Check (if applicable) – Volunteers over the age of 18 are first required to complete a background check. 6. How to Get Involved If you are 18 or over, please first reach out to the Volunteer Services department, volunteer@pasadenahumane.org, to request a LiveScan background check. Once completed and verified by the Volunteer Services department, volunteers may begin to look at the project page for upcoming shifts and reserve their spots. When arriving for your shift, sign in at the Volunteer Services office, and then proceed to the Humane Education Classroom (2nd floor of Building 6 on the Map: https://shorturl.at/QdnRg). Please text (214) 551-7639 when you arrive for your shift if no one is in the Volunteer Office. 7. Benefits to Volunteers Volunteering in the Humane Education Program at Pasadena Humane offers a meaningful way to inspire compassion for animals while gaining valuable personal and professional skills. 📚 Make a Lasting Impact – Help educate children and adults on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. 📚 Develop Public Speaking & Teaching Skills – Gain experience in presenting to diverse audiences. 📚 Enhance Communication & Leadership Abilities – Improve confidence in leading discussions and engaging with the community. 📚 Work Hands-On with Animals – Opportunities to assist in live demonstrations and showcase shelter pets. 📚 Experience Emotional Fulfillment – See firsthand how education changes perceptions and leads to better outcomes for animals. 🎓 Gain Experience in Humane Education & Outreach – Great for those interested in careers in teaching, animal welfare, or nonprofit work. 🎓 Earn Community Service Hours – Fulfills school or workplace volunteer requirements. 🎓 Build a Stronger Resume – Demonstrates teamwork, leadership, and advocacy skills for future job opportunities. 🎓 Networking & Mentorship Opportunities – Connect with shelter professionals, educators, and fellow animal advocates. 🐾 Recognition & Appreciation – Volunteer appreciation events, certificates of achievement, and potential awards. 🐾 Contribute to Pasadena Humane’s Mission – Be a part of an organization dedicated to creating a more compassionate community for animals and people.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes! 2. Program Description and Goals Volunteers will transcribe handwritten medical observations notes to our intranet software, Chameleon. 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? Our Veterinary Health and Animal Care Division at Pasadena Humane serves as the backbone of the organization, providing critical healthcare that enhances the well-being and adoptability of animals in need. We are seeking dedicated volunteers who can help us with medical data entry, thereby allowing our medical staff to help more animals. The Medical Data Entry Assistant will work with our health team to input important medical notes into a centralized software system. This role is crucial to keeping our team organized and ensuring timely medical attention for all animals under our care. 4. Position Outline Volunteers will check in at the Volunteer Services office and meet with a staff member to get situated for their shift (in the Volunteer Services office). If this is your first shift, you will be meeting with a staff member for a tutorial on how to use Chameleon and enter notes. Depending on the number of animals on the observation sheets, Medical Data Entry shifts typically run 2 hours. If you need to cancel your shift for any reason, please do so at least 24 hours in advance. If you need to cancel with less than 24 hours advance notice, please withdraw from your shift and also call the Volunteer Services office, 626.792.7151 x984 to let our team know so we can alert the Health Team immediately. 5. Skills and Requirements 🩺 Attention to Detail – Ability to accurately transcribe medical observations without errors. 🩺 Strong Typing & Data Entry Skills – Comfortable using a computer to enter information quickly and efficiently. 🩺 Confidentiality & Discretion – Ability to handle sensitive medical information with professionalism. 🩺 Organizational & Time Management Skills – Capable of managing multiple records while maintaining accuracy. 🩺 Ability to Follow Protocols – Understand and adhere to shelter medical documentation guidelines. 🩺 Basic Medical Terminology Knowledge (Preferred) – Willingness to learn common veterinary terms related to animal care. ✅ Minimum Age Requirement – Volunteers must be at least 18 years old ✅ Completion of Orientation & Training – Must attend training sessions on data entry procedures and record-keeping protocols. ✅ Proficiency with Computers – Experience with database systems, Microsoft Office, or similar software preferred. ✅ Commitment to Scheduled Shifts – Ability to volunteer consistently to ensure timely data entry for medical records. ✅ Ability to Work Independently – Comfortable completing tasks with minimal supervision while maintaining accuracy. 6. How to Get Involved Shifts are offered every day of the week, so take a look at the calendar section to see what upcoming shift slots are available to sign up. 7. Benefits to Volunteers 🩺 Make a Meaningful Impact – Play a crucial role in ensuring accurate medical records that directly influence animal care decisions. 🩺 Gain Insight into Animal Health & Shelter Medicine – Learn about common medical conditions, treatments, and veterinary protocols used in animal shelters. 🩺 Support the Shelter’s Mission – Help Pasadena Humane maintain high standards of care and efficiency in tracking animal health. 📊 Develop Data Entry & Administrative Skills – Gain hands-on experience in medical record-keeping, database management, and attention to detail. 📊 Enhance Accuracy & Organizational Skills – Strengthen precision and efficiency in handling medical documentation. 📊 Valuable Experience for Careers in Animal Welfare & Veterinary Fields – Ideal for students or professionals interested in veterinary medicine, animal care, or nonprofit operations. 📊 Earn Community Service or Internship Hours – Fulfills volunteer or academic service requirements while building a strong resume. 🐾 Opportunities for Continued Learning – Access to educational sessions or shelter medical team insights. 🐾 Recognition & Appreciation – Participation in volunteer appreciation events, certificates of achievement, and other forms of recognition.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes! The Shelter Greeter & Visitor Engagement program is accepting volunteers. 2. Program Description and Goals The Shelter Greeter & Visitor Engagement program plays a vital role in creating a welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors to our shelter. As the first point of contact, Shelter Greeter & Visitor Engagement volunteers help guests navigate our campus, answer frequently asked questions, and provide general assistance to ensure a smooth and positive visit. Whether directing potential adopters to the right area, helping a lost guest find their way, or offering friendly guidance, Greeters contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere that enhances our mission of animal welfare. Our goal is to ensure that every visitor—whether they’re looking to adopt, volunteer, donate, or simply learn more—feels informed and supported from the moment they arrive. To empower our volunteers, we provide thorough training on frequently asked questions, a walkie-talkie for real-time staff communication, and continuous support throughout each shift. If you enjoy engaging with people, offering helpful information, and being a welcoming presence, we invite you to join our Shelter Greeter team! Your kindness and guidance make a lasting impact on our guests and help strengthen our shelter community. 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? As a Shelter Greeter & Visitor Engagement Volunteer, you are an essential part of creating a welcoming and positive experience for every visitor who steps onto our campus. Many guests arrive excited but unsure of where to go or how to begin their journey—whether they’re looking to adopt, volunteer, or support our mission in other ways. Your warm welcome, helpful guidance, and ability to provide clear information ensure that each visitor feels supported and informed. By assisting with directions, answering frequently asked questions, and connecting guests with the right resources, you help staff focus on critical shelter operations, including animal care, adoptions, and community programs. Your involvement reduces confusion, improves efficiency, and enhances the overall visitor experience—making it easier for adopters to find their new pet, donors to support our work, and volunteers to feel inspired to get involved. Simply put, your presence makes a difference. Every smile, every helpful interaction, and every moment you dedicate to welcoming visitors contributes to our mission of saving and caring for animals in need. Thank you for being a part of our team! 4. Position Outline When arriving for their shift, volunteers will check in at the Volunteer Services office. If this is a first time shift, volunteers will meet with a member of the Volunteer Services staff member to answer FAQ questions to get you started. Volunteers will be assigned to certain forward-facing areas of the shelter. Shifts are provided 7 days per week, with multiple locations during the weekend to deal with the increase in foot traffic. To be better prepared for your shift, please review our Shelter Map and Parking Information here: https://pasadenahumanesociety-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/r/personal/volunteer_pasadenahumane_org/Documents/GETTING%20TO%20AND%20AROUND%20CAMPUS.pdf?csf=1&web=1&e=OGo4D0 5. Skills & Requirements For the Shelter Greeter & Visitor Engagement program, volunteers will thrive if they have a combination of strong communication skills, approachability, and adaptability. Here are the key skills and requirements that would set volunteers up for success: Valuable Skills: ✅ Friendly & Approachable Demeanor – Volunteers should enjoy engaging with the public and making visitors feel welcome. ✅ Clear & Confident Communication – The ability to provide directions and information in a clear, professional, and friendly manner. ✅ Active Listening & Empathy – Understanding visitors' needs and concerns, whether they’re adopters, donors, or community members. ✅ Adaptability & Problem-Solving – Comfort in answering a variety of questions and troubleshooting visitor concerns. ✅ Teamwork & Collaboration – Willingness to work with staff and other volunteers to ensure seamless visitor support. ✅ Basic Knowledge of Shelter Operations (or willingness to learn) – Familiarity with adoption processes, shelter policies, and common visitor inquiries. Requirements: ✔ Minimum Age Requirement - 6-14 year old volunteers must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Volunteers ages 15 and older may volunteer on their own. ✔ Comfort Standing & Moving Around – Volunteers may be stationed in different areas and need to assist visitors across campus. ✔ Ability to Use a Walkie-Talkie – Basic communication with staff when needed. ✔ Commitment to a Regular Shift – Consistency helps provide reliable visitor support. ✔ Completion of Orientation & Training – After completing the in-person Meet & Greet session, volunteers may begin to look at the shift schedule and sign up for future shifts. 6. How to Get Involved After completing the in-person Meet & Greet session, volunteers may begin to look at the shift schedule and sign up for future shifts. 7. Benefits to Volunteers Those who volunteer within this program are on the forefront of community engagement. The success of the shelter depends on how involved our community is with our mission. Shelter Greeter & Visitor Engagement volunteers are given the great responsibility to ensure that each person who comes to the shelter is helped and can leave with a positive impression of the shelter. They will then be more willing to donate, adopt, volunteer, or mention the shelter family or friends. Each positive interaction helps ensure the shelter can be successful in its mission.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes! 2. Program Description and Goals SNiP Express is a vital program that assists members of the public in checking in their pets for low-cost spay or neuter surgeries. Volunteers in this program play an essential role in ensuring a smooth and efficient check-in process by welcoming pet owners, guiding them through the necessary paperwork, and answering basic questions about the procedure. By providing friendly and organized support, volunteers help reduce stress for both pet owners and their animals, making the experience as seamless as possible. This program is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, enjoy interacting with the public, and want to contribute to responsible pet ownership and population control efforts. Program Goals: -Support Accessible Spay/Neuter Services – Ensure that pet owners can easily navigate the check-in process for their pet’s surgery. -Improve Efficiency of Appointment Check-ins – Assist with paperwork completion, reducing wait times and ensuring all necessary information is provided to staff. -Reduce Stress for Pet Owners and Their Pets – Offer guidance and reassurance to individuals dropping off their pets, helping them feel confident and informed. -Promote Responsible Pet Ownership – Educate the community on the importance of spaying and neutering to reduce pet overpopulation and improve animal welfare. -Enhance Shelter and Community Engagement – Build stronger connections between the shelter and the public by providing excellent service and support. By volunteering with SNiP Express, you will help create a positive and well-organized experience for pet owners while directly supporting the shelter’s mission to reduce pet overpopulation through accessible spay/neuter services. 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? The SNiP Express program plays a crucial role in supporting the shelter’s mission to promote responsible pet ownership and reduce pet overpopulation. Volunteers in this program help streamline the check-in process for spay and neuter surgeries, making the experience smoother for pet owners, staff, and the animals themselves. Here’s how this program directly benefits the shelter: 1. Reduces Pet Overpopulation -By assisting with spay/neuter services, the program helps decrease the number of unwanted litters and stray animals in the community. -Fewer unwanted animals mean fewer pets entering the shelter system, reducing overcrowding and euthanasia rates. 2. Improves Efficiency for Staff and Veterinary Teams -Volunteers help complete necessary paperwork, allowing staff to focus on medical care and surgeries rather than administrative tasks. -A well-organized check-in process ensures surgeries start on time, maximizing the number of animals that can be helped each day. 3. Enhances Public Experience and Shelter Reputation -Providing friendly and knowledgeable assistance to pet owners helps build trust in the shelter and its services. -A positive experience increases the likelihood that pet owners will return for future services, recommend the program to others, or support the shelter in other ways (donations, adoptions, volunteering). 4. Reduces Stress for Pet Owners and Their Pets -Volunteers provide reassurance and guidance, easing concerns that pet owners may have about the surgery process. -A calm and organized check-in environment helps keep pets relaxed before their procedures. 5. Encourages Community Engagement -The program gives volunteers a hands-on way to support animal welfare, strengthening community involvement with the shelter. -Increased community participation fosters advocacy for spay/neuter initiatives and other shelter programs. By volunteering with SNiP Express, you are directly contributing to the shelter’s goal of reducing pet homelessness while ensuring pet owners receive the assistance they need. Your efforts help create a more efficient, welcoming, and impactful program that benefits the entire community. 4. Position Outline First-time volunteers will sign up for the "Shadow Shift" position in order to have an in-person training with the SNiP Express staff. When you arrive at the shelter for your shift, please first stop in at the Volunteer Services office to sign in and then downstairs (1st floor) to the large breezeway adjacent to the Shelter Shop. 5. Skills & Requirements Volunteers in the SNiP Express program play a critical role in ensuring a smooth check-in process for pet owners and their animals. To provide the best experience for both the public and the shelter team, volunteers should possess the following skills and meet these requirements: Required Skills & Attributes: - Strong Communication Skills – Volunteers should be comfortable interacting with the public, providing clear instructions, and answering basic questions about the check-in process. - Attention to Detail – Ensuring that all paperwork is completed accurately and efficiently is essential for the success of the program. - Calm and Friendly Demeanor – Many pet owners may feel anxious about their pet’s surgery; volunteers should be patient, reassuring, and approachable. - Ability to Work in a Fast-Paced Environment – Check-in can be busy, so volunteers must stay organized and keep the process moving smoothly. - Comfort Around Animals – Volunteers will be near pets of all sizes and temperaments, so they should feel at ease in an environment with animals. - Team-Oriented Mindset – Volunteers will work closely with staff, veterinarians, and fellow volunteers to ensure an efficient workflow. - Basic Problem-Solving Skills – Volunteers should be able to identify and address minor issues, such as incomplete paperwork or confused pet owners, while escalating concerns to staff when necessary. Program Requirements: - Minimum Age Requirement – 18 years of age and older. - Mandatory Training Session – Volunteers must complete a training session covering the check-in process, paperwork guidelines, and customer service expectations. - Commitment to Assigned Shifts – Since SNiP Express operates on a set schedule, volunteers should commit to their assigned shifts to ensure program consistency. - Adherence to Safety and Shelter Policies – Volunteers must follow all shelter procedures related to interacting with the public, handling paperwork, and working in a setting with animals. - Professional and Respectful Conduct – Volunteers represent the shelter and should maintain a positive and professional attitude at all times. By meeting these skills and requirements, volunteers help ensure that SNiP Express operates efficiently, benefiting both the shelter and the community 6. How to Get Involved After completing the online, prerequisite training modules, volunteers are encouraged to then sign up for upcoming, available shifts. Before signing up and arriving for your first shift, volunteers must first complete the online training modules: https://shorturl.at/sHRtz (if this link does not work, please find the training links below): -Infectious Disease Management Training: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_h1tjfZngT0 -Infectious Disease Management Quiz: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=cSDNmHAIlEqurBCbgZki0RAdOiBuufRCh_A6Y7eq_4pUOVE1MDFYNzlMMDFTUUxSRzZaSUtVSjZYMi4u -How to advise on vaccines_shelter and clinic protocols: https://pasadenahumanesociety-my.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/personal/cbriffett_pasadenahumane_org/EfswoIltM0VMifjajsLilo8B5aiGIgZrEwmVLGDOQg1Alw?nav=eyJyZWZlcnJhbEluZm8iOnsicmVmZXJyYWxBcHAiOiJPbmVEcml2ZUZvckJ1c2luZXNzIiwicmVmZXJyYWxBcHBQbGF0Zm9ybSI6IldlYiIsInJlZmVycmFsTW9kZSI6InZpZXciLCJyZWZlcnJhbFZpZXciOiJNeUZpbGVzTGlua0NvcHkifX0&e=I3dkwK&referrer=Outlook.Web&referrerScenario=email-linkwithoutembed -Weigh Dogs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7JiN9JxR_s&feature=youtu.be 7. Benefits to Volunteers Volunteering with SNiP Express is a rewarding experience that provides direct support to the shelter, the community, and the animals in need. As a volunteer, you will gain valuable skills, make meaningful connections, and contribute to a program that positively impacts pet welfare. 1. Make a Tangible Difference in Animal Welfare - Play a key role in reducing pet overpopulation by supporting a program that provides accessible spay/neuter services. - Help ensure that every pet owner has the guidance and resources they need to complete their pet’s surgery process successfully. - Directly support a humane solution to pet homelessness by assisting with an essential preventive program. 2. Gain Valuable Skills and Experience - Customer Service & Communication – Improve your ability to interact with the public in a professional and helpful manner. - Administrative & Organizational Skills – Learn how to manage paperwork, follow procedural guidelines, and maintain efficiency in a fast-paced environment. - Problem-Solving & Teamwork – Work alongside staff and fellow volunteers to ensure a seamless check-in process. - Animal Shelter & Veterinary Experience – Gain insight into shelter operations and veterinary services, which can be beneficial for those interested in careers in animal welfare or veterinary medicine. 3. Connect with Like-Minded Animal Lovers - Become part of a compassionate community of volunteers and staff dedicated to improving the lives of pets and their owners. - Build friendships with fellow volunteers who share your passion for animal welfare. 4. Contribute to a Stress-Free and Positive Public Experience - Help pet owners feel comfortable and confident as they check in their animals for surgery. - Play a role in making spay/neuter services more accessible and less intimidating for community members. 5. Enjoy a Flexible and Fulfilling Volunteer Role - SNiP Express offers a structured but engaging volunteer experience that doesn’t require direct animal handling. - Volunteers can participate based on their availability, making it a great option for individuals looking to give back without a long-term commitment. By volunteering with SNiP Express, you’re not only helping the shelter run more efficiently but also making a lasting impact on pets, their owners, and the broader community. IMPORTANT - PLEASE REVIEW: Shelter Map and Parking Information here: https://pasadenahumanesociety-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/r/personal/volunteer_pasadenahumane_org/Documents/GETTING%20TO%20AND%20AROUND%20CAMPUS.pdf?csf=1&web=1&e=OGo4D0
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes, Vaccine Clinic has resumed and are accepting new volunteers. 2. Program Description and Goals The Vaccine Clinic provides low-cost vaccinations to members of the public, ensuring that pets in our community stay healthy and protected. Volunteers play a key role in the success of these clinics by assisting with the check-in process, helping pet owners navigate the clinic, and directing them to the appropriate areas for their pet’s vaccinations. This role is essential in creating a smooth and efficient experience for pet owners while also reducing stress for the animals. Vaccine Clinics operate on scheduled days, typically held in a structured, fast-paced environment. Volunteers work alongside veterinary staff and shelter personnel to facilitate the flow of the clinic, ensuring that all pets receive the care they need in a timely manner. Program Goals - Support Community Pet Health – Provide accessible, affordable vaccinations to help prevent the spread of common diseases in pets. - Enhance Clinic Efficiency – Assist with check-in and traffic flow to minimize wait times and ensure a smooth process. - Reduce Stress for Pets & Owners – Help guide pet owners with clear instructions, reducing confusion and making the experience as comfortable as possible. - Engage Volunteers in Hands-On Service – Offer a meaningful volunteer opportunity that directly benefits animals and their families. This volunteer role is ideal for individuals who enjoy interacting with the public, have strong communication skills, and want to make a direct impact on animal welfare. Whether you're experienced with animals or just passionate about helping, your support will be invaluable in making this program a success! 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? The Vaccine Clinic program plays a crucial role in supporting the shelter’s mission by providing preventive care to pets in the community, ultimately helping reduce the number of animals entering the shelter. Here’s how: - Prevents Surrender Due to Medical Costs – By offering low-cost vaccinations, the program helps pet owners afford essential care, reducing the likelihood that pets will be surrendered due to preventable illnesses. - Reduces Disease Spread – Vaccinated pets are less likely to contract and spread contagious diseases, which helps protect both owned and shelter animals from outbreaks. - Strengthens Community Engagement – The clinic fosters positive relationships between the shelter and the public, increasing trust and awareness of shelter services and resources. - Supports Shelter Operations – By allowing veterinary staff to focus on administering vaccines, volunteers help streamline the process, improving efficiency and allowing the shelter to serve more animals in less time. - Encourages Responsible Pet Ownership – Educating pet owners on the importance of vaccinations helps promote long-term pet health and reduces future medical emergencies that might lead to relinquishment. By assisting in the Vaccine Clinic, volunteers help the shelter extend its impact beyond its walls, improving animal welfare on a broader scale while ensuring that pets in the community remain healthy and with their families. 4. Position Outline To assist in the smooth operation of the Vaccine Clinic by guiding pet owners through the process, ensuring efficient check-in, directing them to the correct vaccination stations, and helping create a low-stress experience for both animals and their families. Key Responsibilities 📌Check-in Assistance – Welcome pet owners, collect necessary information, and ensure paperwork is completed accurately. 📌 Traffic Flow Management – Direct pet owners to the appropriate areas to keep the process organized and efficient. 📌Animal & Handler Support – Help reassure and guide pet owners while keeping animals calm in a busy environment. 📌Provide Information – Answer basic questions about the vaccination process, post-vaccine care, and direct individuals to shelter staff for additional inquiries. 📌Maintain Clean & Safe Spaces – Assist in keeping waiting areas clean, ensuring walkways are clear, and helping maintain a stress-free environment. Qualifications & Skills ✅ Comfortable interacting with the public in a fast-paced setting ✅Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team ✅Strong communication and customer service skills ✅ Comfortable being around animals of various sizes and temperaments ✅ Ability to stand or walk for extended periods during a shift Time Commitment 🤝 Shifts are typically [insert hours per shift, e.g., 3-4 hours] 🤝 Volunteers are expected to commit to at least [insert preferred commitment, e.g., one shift per month] Training & Support 🎓 On-site supervision will be provided by shelter staff and experienced volunteers. 🎓 Additional learning materials on vaccination procedures and pet handling may be provided. Impact of the Role By assisting with the Vaccine Clinic, volunteers help reduce pet surrender, prevent illness, and support community pet health, ensuring more animals stay in loving homes and out of shelters. 5. Skills & Requirements Essential Skills 🗣️ Strong Communication Skills – Ability to clearly communicate instructions to pet owners and work collaboratively with staff and fellow volunteers. 😊 Customer Service-Oriented – Comfortable interacting with the public, answering questions, and providing assistance in a friendly and professional manner. ⚡ Ability to Work in a Fast-Paced Environment – The clinic can be busy, so volunteers should be able to stay focused, organized, and adaptable. 🐶 Calm and Confident Around Animals – Volunteers should be comfortable being around dogs and cats of various sizes and temperaments. ✅ Attention to Detail – Ensuring paperwork is completed correctly and directing individuals to the correct areas is essential for clinic efficiency. 🏃 Physical Stamina – Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, as well as assist with minor physical tasks such as setting up tables or guiding pet owners through different stations. 🤝 Team Player – Willingness to work collaboratively with shelter staff, veterinary professionals, and other volunteers to ensure a smooth and efficient clinic operation. Requirements 🎂 Age Requirement – Volunteers must be 18 years old to participate. 📚 Training Completion – Must complete all the prerequisite online training modules prior to first shift: https://shorturl.at/qHH67 📆 Commitment – Ideally, volunteers should commit to at least one shift per month within this program to ensure consistency in operations. ⚠️ Ability to Follow Safety Protocols – Volunteers must adhere to shelter policies regarding animal handling, public interaction, and hygiene procedures. 6. How to Get Involved Once volunteers have attended their Meet & Greet orientation and have completed the online training modules (https://shorturl.at/qHH67), they will be able to sign up for any of the in-person shadow shifts within the program. 7. Benefits to Volunteers
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? The weekend Visiting Hours program is expected to resume the first week of May. 2. Program Description and Goals On most weekends, we have open Visiting Hours for members of the public to view the animals in our care! Although we are open 7 days a week for adoptions by appointment, this program gives visitors the opportunity to walk through the kennels without an appointment. Ambassador volunteers welcome our guests, answer basic questions about the animals in our care (from their kennel cards) and our adoption process, help visitors navigate the kennels and ensure that visitors do not touch the animals (for the health & safety of the animals and our guests). 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? Each year, Pasadena Humane helps more than 40,000 animals of all shapes, sizes, ages, breeds, and species. Members of our community are a vital component to help homeless animals find loving homes and to keep resident animals in their homes. Every adoption, foster placement, and donation comes from compassionate individuals in our community. As a volunteer in this role, you will be a key ambassador, providing vital support and education to potential adopters, donors, and advocates. Your interactions with the public directly impact our ability to place animals in homes, spread awareness, and build a stronger network of animal welfare supporters. 4. Position Outline On the day of your shift, please arrive at the Volunteer Services office no later than 1:30 pm to get signed in, attend the all-group huddle, and get to your location prior to the gates opening at 2pm. With the prep time prior to gates opening and some wrap-up time after 5 pm, this shift typically last anywhere between 3.5 and 4 hours. 5. Skills and Requirements - Strong Communication Skills – Ability to engage with the public in a friendly, professional, and informative manner. - Customer Service Mindset – Comfortable assisting potential adopters, answering questions, and providing guidance with patience and enthusiasm. - Passion for Animal Welfare – A strong commitment to our mission of helping homeless animals find loving homes. - Ability to Handle a Fast-Paced Environment – Comfortable multitasking and responding to various inquiries during adoption events or shelter visits. - Teamwork and Collaboration – Willing to work alongside staff and other volunteers to provide excellent service to visitors. - Basic Tech Knowledge – May be required to assist with adoption applications, data entry, or record-keeping. - Physical Requirements – Some roles may involve standing for extended periods and walking through the kennels throughout the shift. - Minimum Age Requirement – Volunteers ages 6-14 may participate in this program with the accompaniment of a parent or guardian. Volunteers ages 15 and up may volunteer on their own. - Training & Orientation – Along with attending the Meet & Greet session, volunteer are encouraged to prepare for their first shift by reviewing the training material: Training Video: https://youtu.be/A8SKEieJDvU Training Quiz: https://forms.office.com/r/k9pkCixGnN 6. How to Get Involved Take a look at the program's calendar to see what days shifts are being offered. There will be a green dot indicating shifts have been added to that day. If there are shift slots still available for a given shift, there will be a "Volunteer" button; click it to confirm the shift. Successfully confirming the shift reservation, you will be able to see that shift in your volunteer dashboard and will receive a reminder email 48 hours prior to the shift. 7. Benefits to Volunteers 🌟Make a Difference – Play a direct role in helping homeless animals find loving homes and educating the public about responsible pet ownership. 🤝 Community & Connections – Become part of a passionate team of animal lovers, forming friendships with fellow volunteers, staff, and adopters. 🎓 Skill Development – Gain valuable experience in customer service, public engagement, communication, and problem-solving, which can enhance resumes and career opportunities. 🏅 Recognition & Appreciation – Volunteers are essential to our mission! We offer appreciation events, milestone rewards, and recommendation letters for dedicated service. Please contact Volunteer Services for more information. 📚 Learning Opportunities – Attend workshops, training sessions, and informational meetings on animal welfare, behavior, and adoption best practices. 🕒 Flexible Scheduling – We offer a range of volunteer shifts to fit different availability and commitment levels.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
**REQUIRED TRAINING** BEFORE SIGNING UP AND ATTENDING THE TIER 1 IN-PERSON TRAINING, YOU MUST FIRST COMPLETE ALL THE PREREQUISITE ONLINE MODULES: https://pasadenahumanesociety-my.sharepoint.com/:b:/g/personal/cbriffett_pasadenahumane_org/Eb2c2I7cAZJFr5szr7UEjWQBJRjnIvj6FKkzIT8mUxdUAg?e=uP04mo PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In the Tier 1 training, volunteers will meet with Volunteer Services Program Manager, Skylar, to review the fundamentals of how to work with and help our shelter dogs. Tier 1 training includes in-kennel enrichment Boredom Busters, Click-to-Calm, and a foundation of (how to interpret) dog body language. This is the introductory level for volunteers looking to eventually work directly with shelter dogs. DUTIES: Completing this in-person training session will allow volunteers to work in any of the Tier 1 programs and work towards their prerequisite (6) hours to Tier 2. HOW LONG: Once in-person training is completed, this program allows for flexible days/hours
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes! The Drop-in Readers program is set to resume March 1st, and shifts are available for sign-ups! 2. Program Description and Goals Drop-in Readers is a volunteer-driven program designed to provide a calming and enriching experience for shelter dogs by having volunteers read to them. Studies have shown that reading to dogs in a shelter setting helps reduce their stress, acclimates them to the presence of people near their kennels, and provides a soothing auditory experience. This program is ideal for volunteers of all ages and experience levels, including those who may not be comfortable handling dogs but still want to make a meaningful impact. Volunteers in the Drop-in Reading program will sit outside designated kennels and read aloud to the dogs using a gentle and calm tone. They may bring their own books or choose from a selection of shelter-provided reading materials. The goal is to create a positive association with human interaction while also offering enrichment to dogs awaiting adoption. Program Goals: - Reduce Stress for Shelter Dogs – The presence of a calm reader and the soothing sound of a voice can help lower anxiety levels in dogs, making them feel more comfortable in their environment. - Acclimate Dogs to Human Interaction – Regular exposure to people near their kennels helps dogs develop positive associations with visitors, increasing their chances of successful adoption. - Provide Enrichment – Reading offers mental stimulation for dogs, breaking up the monotony of the shelter environment and promoting overall well-being. - Encourage Community Engagement – The program allows volunteers, including children and families, to contribute meaningfully to animal welfare without requiring prior handling experience. - Enhance Adoption Potential – Dogs that are more relaxed and socialized tend to be more appealing to potential adopters, improving their chances of finding a forever home. 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? The Drop-in Readers program provides numerous benefits not just for the dogs, but for the shelter as a whole. As a volunteer, your participation directly contributes to these positive outcomes: 1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety in Dogs -Lower stress levels mean dogs are more likely to present as relaxed and friendly when potential adopters visit. -Less barking and anxious behaviors create a calmer, more welcoming environment for both visitors and staff. 2. Increases Adoption Potential -Dogs that are accustomed to people near their kennels are more likely to engage positively with adopters. -Drop-in Readers help dogs develop better social skills, making them more appealing to potential adopters. -A calm and enriched dog is more likely to show their true personality rather than appear fearful or overly energetic. 3. Provides Meaningful Enrichment for Dogs -Reading to dogs breaks up the monotony of the day and provides mental stimulation. -Dogs that receive regular enrichment tend to be healthier and happier during their stay at the shelter. 4. Supports Staff and Reduces Behavioral Challenges -Dogs that are less stressed and more comfortable with human interaction require less intervention from staff for behavioral concerns. -A more relaxed kennel environment makes daily care routines, feeding, and cleaning easier and safer for staff and volunteers. 5. Encourages Community Engagement -This program allows individuals, including children and those who may not be able to handle animals, to support the shelter in a meaningful way. -Volunteers help create a stronger bond between the shelter and the community, which can lead to increased support through donations, adoptions, and advocacy. 6. Showcases the Shelter as an Innovative and Compassionate Organization -Unique programs like Reading Rovers highlight the shelter’s commitment to animal welfare and enrichment. -The program can serve as a model for other shelters looking for innovative ways to help their animals. By participating in Drop-in Readers, you are playing an important role in improving the wellbeing of shelter dogs, enhancing their chances of adoption, and supporting the overall mission of the shelter. Your time and effort truly make a difference! 4. Position Outline After signing up for an upcoming shift, volunteer will arrive at the shelter and check in at the Volunteer Services office. If this is your first shift, you will meet with a Volunteer Services staff member for a brief tutorial and tour of the kennels. The shifts are typically one hour in length. 5. Skills & Requirements While Drop-in Readers is an accessible program for volunteers of all experience levels, there are a few key skills and requirements to ensure a safe and beneficial experience for both volunteers and the shelter dogs. Required Skills & Attributes: - Calm and Patient Demeanor – Volunteers should be comfortable sitting quietly near kennels and reading in a soothing tone, even if a dog is initially restless or unresponsive. - Comfort Around Dogs – While direct handling is not required, volunteers should feel comfortable being near shelter dogs and understanding their body language. - Good Reading Skills – Volunteers should be able to read aloud at a steady and clear pace, using a calm and engaging voice. - Ability to Follow Instructions – Volunteers must follow shelter guidelines, including designated reading areas, safety protocols, and any special instructions regarding individual dogs. - Respect for Shelter Environment – Volunteers should maintain a respectful attitude toward staff, other volunteers, and the animals, ensuring a positive and welcoming environment. Program Requirements: - Minimum Age Requirement – Available to volunteers ages 6 and up. Volunteer under the age of 15 are required to have a parent or guardian with them at all times. - Orientation & Training – Volunteers must complete a brief training session covering program guidelines, dog behavior basics, and safety protocols. - Appropriate Behavior & Conduct – Volunteers must avoid loud noises, sudden movements, or any interactions that might startle or stress the dogs. - Use of Approved Reading Materials – Volunteers may bring their own books or select from shelter-approved reading materials. Books should be calm and positive in tone. - Commitment & Scheduling – While this is a flexible program, volunteers are encouraged to participate regularly to maximize benefits for the dogs. - Volunteers are expected to refrain from touching the dog through the kennel bars, or allowing the dogs to touch/lick through the bars. These requirements ensure a safe and positive experience for both the volunteers and the shelter animals. 6. How to Get Involved To get started, volunteers will complete the following online training modules: -a. Infectious Disease Management Training Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_h1tjfZngT0 -b. Quiz: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=cSDNmHAIlEqurBCbgZki0RAdOiBuufRCh_A6Y7eq_4pUOVE1MDFYNzlMMDFTUUxSRzZaSUtVSjZYMi4u -c. Fear Free Shelters Certification (Please visit your Project Catalog: "Fear Free Shelter Program" to complete this training). 7. Benefits to Volunteers Volunteering in the Drop-in Readers program provides meaningful rewards, both personally and professionally. Whether you’re looking to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals, develop new skills, or simply enjoy a relaxing and fulfilling activity, this program offers numerous benefits: 1. Make a Positive Impact on Shelter Dogs -Help reduce stress and anxiety for dogs in the shelter. -Provide companionship and enrichment, improving dogs’ overall well-being. -Play a direct role in helping dogs become more adoptable by acclimating them to human presence. 2. Experience Personal Fulfillment -Volunteering with animals is a rewarding and heartwarming experience. -You’ll know that your time is making a tangible difference in the lives of shelter dogs. -Gain a sense of purpose by contributing to a program that enhances animal welfare. 3. Develop Communication and Public Speaking Skills -Practicing reading aloud helps improve fluency, confidence, and clarity in speech. -Ideal for children, students, and adults looking to enhance their reading skills in a low-pressure setting. -Great opportunity for educators, aspiring teachers, or those who enjoy storytelling. 4. Reduce Your Own Stress and Anxiety -Reading to dogs is a calming and therapeutic activity, benefiting both the animals and the volunteers. -Spending time around animals has been shown to lower stress, reduce blood pressure, and improve mood. -A great way to unwind in a peaceful and compassionate environment. 5. Engage in a Meaningful Volunteer Opportunity Regardless of Experience Level -Open to all ages and abilities, including those who may not be able to handle animals directly. -A great option for families, children, seniors, and individuals with limited mobility. -No prior shelter experience is necessary—just a love for animals and a willingness to help! 6. Be Part of a Supportive Shelter Community -Connect with like-minded animal lovers and shelter staff. -Gain insight into animal behavior, care, and the shelter’s mission. -Opportunities to explore other volunteer roles if you wish to get more involved in the future. By participating in Drop-in Readers, volunteers not only improve the lives of shelter dogs but also experience personal growth, relaxation, and a deep sense of community.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
CERTIFICATION DESCRIPTION: Join us to get "Fear Free Certified!" The Fear Free Shelter Program aims to provide training that is suitable for all individuals involved in the care and oversight of shelter and rescue animals—from medical and behavioral staff to intake, reception, kennel, and cattery staff to animal control officers, adoption counselors, foster caregivers, and shelter volunteers. The Fear Free Shelter Program is FREE to volunteers and is a 5 hour online training course intended for all types of sheltering organizations with the goal of achieving a Fear Free culture through the united actions and attitudes of shelter team members. For many sheltering organizations, improving available animal housing facilities will also be an important consideration, but even so, embracing a Fear Free culture will improve welfare until such changes in the physical layout can be made. This training is a pre-requisite to any programs working with animals at our shelter. To begin the certification process: 1. Download the Volunteer Verification form and fill in with your information: https://pasadenahumanesociety-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/cbriffett_pasadenahumane_org/Esej3puqrshAuZd5pk1bHi4BYbRLbSB8eXcQOq_R6Qa04Q?e=zCgvsC 2. Use this completed verification form to register on the Fear Free Shelter website when prompted: https://fearfreeshelters.com/register/ Once you have completed the certification, please upload the certificate of completion directly to your volunteer profile or send in to the volunteer@pasadenahumane.org email for assistance. Thank you!
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
1. Is this Program Currently Accepting Volunteers? Yes! The shelter has resumed its regular schedule of on-site and out-in-the-community events! 2. Program Description and Goals Pasadena Humane has many different opportunities for volunteers to help with on-site and community outreach events. Our goal is to be as present in the community as possible, so these types of events offer great opportunities to meet with and educate members of the public about all the programs and service the shelter provides. 3. How Does this Program Help the Shelter? The Event Support Volunteer program provides significant benefits to Pasadena Humane by enhancing its community presence, strengthening engagement, and supporting the shelter’s mission in several key ways: 📚 Expands Outreach & Public Awareness - Volunteers serve as ambassadors for Pasadena Humane, educating the public about shelter programs, animal welfare, and responsible pet ownership. - Events allow the shelter to reach new audiences who may not otherwise visit the shelter, fostering connections with potential adopters, donors, and supporters. 📚 Promotes Adoptions & Program Participation - By participating in off-site adoption and awareness events, volunteers help increase the visibility of adoptable animals and shelter services. - Volunteers encourage event attendees to adopt, foster, or support programs like spay/neuter services, vaccine clinics, and humane education. 📚 Strengthens Community Relationships Hosting and attending events helps Pasadena Humane build partnerships with local businesses, schools, and other organizations. - Volunteers create positive interactions with the community, reinforcing Pasadena Humane’s role as a trusted resource for animal welfare and education. 📚 Supports Shelter Operations & Staff - By assisting with event logistics, volunteers free up staff time, allowing them to focus on critical shelter functions. - Volunteers provide hands-on support for setup, breakdown, and event activities, ensuring smooth operations without overburdening staff. 📚 Generates Fundraising & Donation Opportunities - Events create opportunities for fundraising, attracting new donors and increasing financial support through raffles, merchandise sales, and sponsorships. - Volunteers help engage potential donors, explain how contributions support the shelter, and promote Pasadena Humane’s initiatives. 📚 Enhances Volunteer Engagement & Retention - Event volunteering offers flexible opportunities for people who may not be available for regular shelter shifts. - Volunteers gain meaningful experiences that strengthen their connection to the shelter, leading to long-term involvement and advocacy. This program ultimately expands Pasadena Humane’s impact beyond its physical location, making a wider, lasting difference in the community while increasing shelter resources and support. 4. Position Outline Are you outgoing, energetic, and passionate about animals? Join Pasadena Humane as an Event Support Volunteer and help bring our mission into the community! Why You’ll Love This Role: - Be a People Person! Engage with the public, answer questions, and share the incredible work we do. - Make a Difference! Help connect animals with loving homes and promote vital programs like spay/neuter services, humane education, and more. - Get Out & Have Fun! Work at a variety of exciting events—pet adoption fairs, fundraisers, community outreach events, and more. - Work with Like-Minded Animal Lovers! Be part of a team that shares your enthusiasm for helping animals and educating the community. What You’ll Do: ✅ Greet and interact with event attendees, sharing Pasadena Humane’s mission and programs. ✅ Assist with event setup and breakdown—think tables, tents, signage, and fun giveaways! ✅ Support event activities like raffles, educational booths, and interactive games. ✅ (For select events) Help with animal handling to ensure adoptable pets shine! ✅ Represent Pasadena Humane with energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism. What We’re Looking For: 🌟 Outgoing, friendly, and comfortable talking to people. 🌟 Passionate about animals and community engagement. 🌟 Ready to be on your feet and enjoy an active, outdoor setting. 🌟 16+ years old (some events may require volunteers to be 18+). 🌟 Able to commit to at least a few events per year. 💡 Ready to jump in? Apply today and help Pasadena Humane bring animal welfare education and adoption events to the community! 5. Skills & Requirements To thrive in this role, prospective volunteers should possess the following skills, abilities, and qualifications: 1. People & Communication Skills ✅ Outgoing & Friendly – Comfortable engaging with the public and answering questions about Pasadena Humane. ✅ Clear Communicator – Able to explain programs, services, and adoption processes concisely. ✅ Active Listener – Capable of addressing visitor inquiries and directing them appropriately. 2. Public Engagement & Representation ✅ Approachable & Positive Attitude – Represents Pasadena Humane in a warm, professional, and enthusiastic manner. ✅ Comfort with Crowds – Willing to interact with people of all ages at bustling events. ✅ Customer Service Mindset – Ability to engage with diverse community members, ensuring a welcoming experience. 3. Event Logistics & Physical Requirements ✅ Dependable & Punctual – Able to arrive on time and commit to scheduled event shifts. ✅ Physically Capable – Comfortable with standing, walking, and light lifting (e.g., setting up tables, tents, signage). ✅ Adaptability – Can adjust to different event types, locations, and weather conditions (some events may be outdoors). 4. Animal Handling & Safety (if applicable) ✅ Comfort Around Animals – Willing to be around dogs, cats, and other shelter animals at events. ✅ Basic Animal Handling Skills (Preferred but Not Required) – Training will be provided for volunteers who assist with pets. ✅ Situational Awareness – Ensures the safety of both animals and attendees during events. 5. Teamwork & Reliability ✅ Collaborative Spirit – Works well with staff, fellow volunteers, and community partners. ✅ Takes Initiative – Proactively looks for ways to assist during events. ✅ Responsible & Trustworthy – Follows event guidelines and upholds Pasadena Humane’s standards. Minimum Requirements: ✔️ Age: 16+ (Some events may require 18+) ✔️ Commitment: Willing to participate in multiple events per year 6. How to Get Involved After reading through the position description and deciding if this would be a good fit for you, look at the event calendar to see shift availability for upcoming opportunities. 7. Benefits to Volunteers 🐾 Make a tangible impact on animal welfare and community awareness. 🐾 Gain valuable experience in event coordination and public engagement. 🐾 Connect with a passionate team of fellow animal lovers. 🐾 Enjoy fun, unique events while representing a cause you care about! 8. Upcoming Events Off-Site Events: - Check back soon for upcoming events off-site On-Site Events: - Doggy Speed Dating: Sunday, June 1 from 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
How you can help:
Pasadena Humane
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Pasadena Humane has a lot to show off and of which to be proud! We are looking for volunteers (18 years and older) to give shelter tours to groups (of around 15 people). DUTIES/REQUIREMENTS: - Volunteer Tour Ambassadors will create an inviting environment - Must be comfortable speaking to and in front of small groups of people - Give a 45-minute tour to offer a rare, curated, and in-depth look at all the amazing facets of the shelter (tour outline provided below) HOW LONG: - 45 minute tour (offered on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month) REQUIRED TRAINING: -Please review the tour guide outline presentation here: https://tinyurl.com/mwmd35ed -If you are signing up to help with a tour for the first time, we invite you to sign up for at least (2) assistant shifts before signing up to lead a tour. Thank you! *LIVE SCAN REQUIREMENT: Please email volunteer@pasadenahumane.org to request live scan instructions before signing up for this opportunity. Thanks!
How you can help: