Thank you for your interest in volunteering for Animal Welfare Association! We are proud to have the support of so many wonderful volunteers. These dedicated people put their concern for animal welfare into action by donating their time, talents and energy.
Our volunteers help in three main program areas of the organization. Volunteers assist on-site in our pet shelter and clinic, within our community through outreach programs and special events, and by becoming a foster parent.
After submitting a Volunteer application, AWA will contact you within two weeks with an orientation date and time. Following a response from AWA, volunteers are required to attend an orientation before service can begin.
Applicants age 16 or 17 years old may volunteer independently with written consent from a parent. Applicant may complete the standard volunteer application and will be contacted within two weeks to schedule orientation. At orientation, applicants will be given a release form that must be signed by a parent or legal guardian.
If you are interested in learning information about HIGH SCHOOL SERVICE WEEK, please click here.
Did you know that children ages 12 to 15 are permitted to volunteer at AWA with a parent or legal guardian? A volunteer application must be submitted for BOTH the parent and the child, and they will both need to complete orientation. After orientation, the parent must be with the child at ALL TIMES while volunteering at AWA. AWA holds a Junior Volunteer club twice a month where junior volunteers can come in without their parents to complete service hours by creating enrichment for our homeless pets.
For more information, visit AWA Volunteer FAQs.
Community Outreach: Volunteers assist both prepping and executing our community events, including:
On-site Opportunities: Volunteers assist in both animal handling and clerical roles. To ensure that the volunteer experience is a safe and enjoyable experience for all, our program has different training levels. Some tasks include:
Large Special Events: These events are often planned on weekends. Volunteers will assist in various aspects of AWA’s large events, including:
*Any student wishing to fulfill a time requirement solely for service hours or an honor society should not apply to be a volunteer. Please submit a “High School Service Week” application instead.
*Court ordered community service volunteers are not tracked through our general volunteer program so all inquiries should be directed to our Shelter Manager at nancik@awanj.org
Please note: All volunteers who have been inactive for more than 1 year must complete a new application and attend a Volunteer Orientation in order to resume volunteering.
