Volunteering at the Humane Society
Humane Society programs and events depend on the support of local volunteers.
Volunteers are always welcome and appreciated.
First things first
To make sure that we have the right volunteers doing work that they're most suited for and that they can be proud of, we first ask that interested people fill out a simple application and attend an orientation.
Orientations are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 6pm, and on the third Saturday of every month at 10am (View 2008 Oriention Schedule). If you would like to volunteer, please come to our facility at 935 Farm Road, Memphis, TN (Shelby Farms) on either one of those two days. All volunteers are required to attend this training.
Download our Volunteer Application (PDF)
Download Waiver of Liability form (PDF)
Volunteer Opportunities
Cat Adoption Center
Volunteers help keep the kennel area appealing to the public by providing a clean environment. They also help increase the adoptability of our animals by socializing, grooming and exercising.
Doggie Bank Collector
Volunteers in this program place donation canisters at area locations, collect the money on a regular basis, and count and deliver the money to MSCHS. This is an ideal program for people with busy schedules who would love to help MSCHS, but cannot regularly schedule their time.
Dog Walkers
Volunteers help increase the adoptability of our animals by socializing, grooming and exercising.
Foster Care
Volunteers foster MSCHS animals that are not ready for adoption. These animals may be injured, abused, too young for adoption, ill, nursing mothers and pups/kittens or adult animals in need of socialization. The length of fostering depends on the individual animal's circumstances, ranging from 1 week to 3 months.
Humane Education
Trained volunteers conduct presentations on the humane treatment of animals, proper pet care and the importance of spaying/neutering pets. Presentations are made in classrooms or other off-site locations. There are several education events at summer camps, etc.
Mobile Adoptions
Volunteers in this program assist in off-site adoptions. They help bathe and groom animals prior to the event, sell merchandise, recruit members and volunteers, and answer any questions regarding MSCHS and its services.
Newsletter Delivery
Volunteers in this program place newsletters (which are published quarterly) at various locations in the community. Like Doggie Bank Collectors, this is ideal for those with busy and/or unpredictable schedules.
Special Events
Throughout the year we have many fundraising and public relations events that we need help planning for and executing. These volunteers help set-up for events, sell merchandise, recruit members and volunteers, provide information about MSCHS and its services and educate the public about animal welfare issues. Whatever your expertise, we would love your help!
KPAW
Kids Promoting Animal Welfare. Ages 7-17. These youthful volunteers provide special volunteer needs to the Humane Society and the animals. Adult sponsors are needed for supervision, planning and support.
Office Assistance
The Administrative offices are in need of assistance in the office with tasks such as: answering phone, filing, data entry, etc. A brief training would be required to provide appropriate information. Office hours are M-F, 9am-5pm, please call to schedule in advance.
MISC.
There are several tasks that can be done to assist the staff and animals. At the dog kennel papers can be unfolded, adopter goodie bags stuffed, wash & groom dogs, stuff kongs, etc. (please call in advance to schedule). These tasks and dog washes work best for groups wanting to do service.