Volunteers are Vital
Lend a Paw, Join the Pack.
Volunteers are part of every story here. The ones who take the time to care, to connect, to help animals feel safe again. You don’t need years of experience…just the willingness to show up, be present, and make their world a little less scary while they wait for a home.
Questions? Email volunteers@ffhumane.org
Find Your Purpose Here
Volunteer Application
- All volunteer candidates must be 18 years and older
- After you submit your application, we’ll contact you to schedule a mandatory orientation. A $25 donation (due at orientation) covers your volunteer shirt and name badge. Orientations are held twice a month at our Jupiter location. During the session, we’ll provide all the training you need to stay safe and succeed as a volunteer.
Current Volunteers
Use the volunteer portal to browse and book your volunteer shifts. The volunteer portal is for registered volunteers who have already attended orientation.
Volunteer Opportunities
Explore the various ways you can contribute to our mission and find the role that suits you best.
What roles are available?
You can walk dogs, socialize cats, help with feeding, enrichment activities, cleaning, and laundry. You can also take animals to adoption and community events, assist visitors at our adoption center and kennel club, and lend a hand at our Thrift Boutique by accepting donations, organizing merchandise, and providing customer service. No matter your skills or schedule, there’s a way for you to make a difference.
Is there training?
Yes! All volunteers start with a mandatory orientation to get familiar with our mission, policies, and safety guidelines. After that, you’ll receive specialized training based on your interests and the roles you choose. For example, dog walkers attend dedicated dog-walking classes to ensure the best care and safety for our furry friends.
What does volunteering at Events & Outreach involve?
Volunteers in this area represent Furry Friends at adoption events, fundraisers, and community programs. You’ll help raise awareness and support for our mission, engaging with the public and sharing our story. This includes animal handling.
Volunteer Eligibility
Who Can Join Our Team?
Volunteer Age Requirements:
Volunteers 18 and older can join independently. Teens ages 16–17 can join our teen volunteer program (see below), while those 16 and under can get involved through opportunities outside the shelter.
Teen Volunteer Program (Ages 16-17):
-
12-week sessions, once a week for 3 hours, limited to 20 teens per group (first come, first served)
-
Must be in high school, comfortable with public interaction, and commit to the same day/time/role each week
-
One-time $25 fee due at orientation (covers t-shirt, name tag, and program costs)
-
Teen-specific orientations held the Monday before each session; applications close the Friday of orientation week
-
After 12 weeks, teens may apply to become permanent volunteers with approval
For questions, email volunteers@ffhumane.org
Non-Traditional Volunteer Roles
- If you have court-ordered community service, please contact us to discuss options at volunteers@ffhumane.org
- We offer 4 hours of community service for each day you foster! Min. 2-week commitment, parent must sign off and accompany pick-up. Foster volunteers must provide updates and help promote their fosters.
- We welcome schools, businesses, and community groups to volunteer as a team! Whether you’re looking to build camaraderie, give back, or learn more about animal welfare, we offer customized experiences that may include animal enrichment activities, shelter tours, hands-on help, and more. Let us create a meaningful volunteer day tailored to your group’s goals.
Volunteer Expectations
What We Ask of You
Our volunteers are the backbone of our organization, and we ask for a commitment of at least two shifts a month and that you sign in each shift. Before you start, you’ll participate in an orientation and training session to prepare you for your role. We value compassion, reliability, and a genuine love for animals. Your dedication helps us maintain a nurturing environment for the animals in our care, and we count on you to be consistent and caring in your volunteer duties.
We provide all the necessary training, so no prior experience is required. What matters most is your enthusiasm and willingness to learn. By volunteering with us, you become an integral part of our mission to provide a safe haven for animals in need. Join us, and let your passion for animal welfare shine through your actions.
We don’t care what you look like, who you love, or where you're from—if you show up for the animals, you belong here.
Kay Tennison
Volunteer Manager