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How to Volunteer

We Need You!

To provide all of the necessary services and programs, the HSWC depends on the hard work and dedication of its volunteers. Come be a valued member of our team! We have a wide variety of jobs to choose from, and we welcome anyone who is up to the challenge.

Volunteering isn't just beneficial to the HSWC - it's good for you, too! Volunteers meet new people, play with animals, learn new skills, and feel great about themselves!

Attend a New Volunteer Orientation
All new volunteers must begin by attending Volunteer Orientation. Space at our monthly volunteer orientation is limited, so please sign up in advance by emailing mcardenas@hswc.net. Orientations are on the second Saturday of each month, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. at the HSWC main office.

Age Requirements
Volunteers must be at least 10 years old to volunteer for the Humane Society of Williamson County. No exceptions to this policy will be made. In addition to meeting the minimum age requirement, youth volunteers must adhere to the following policies:

10-13 years old:

• Attend orientation with parent/guardian
• Accompanied at all times by a parent/guardian who has attended orientation; one parent required for every two children
• Limited animal interaction

14-15 years old:

• Attend orientation with parent/guardian
• Accompanied at all times by a parent/guardian who has attended orientation
• Full animal interaction

16-17 years old:

• Attend orientation with parent/guardian
• Can volunteer without parent/guardian
• Full animal interaction

Commitment
We ask that volunteers commit to a regular schedule and volunteer for a minimum of 4 hours a month for at least 6 months. Volunteers must have a genuine concern for animal welfare consistent with the HSWC's philosophy. Volunteers must attend an orientation and shelter tour and must read training materials and/or attend training sessions required for their team(s). Volunteers must read, understand and abide by the HSWC policies and procedures.

We ask that volunteers participate in the Volunteer Benefits Program with a one-time donation of $20 ($10 for each additional family member) payable at orientation. This tax-deductible donation helps cover the costs of the volunteer program and provides volunteers with the following benefits: volunteer accident insurance, personal liability insurance, a volunteer t-shirt and name badge, and membership to our mailing list. Note: donation can be waived if it is not feasible.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers can sign up to participate in three volunteer teams. The following volunteer opportunities are currently available:

Dog Socializer: Dog socializers are responsible for coming in at a scheduled time and taking adoptable dogs for walks on the shelter grounds to exercise, socialize, train, and keep dogs in good mental health during their stay at the shelter. Dog Socializers also assist with customer service and basic cleaning and upkeep of the kennel. Volunteers ages 14+ receive handling training prior to interacting with HSWC dogs. (Minimum age: 10)

Cat Cuddler: Cat Cuddlers are responsible for coming in at a scheduled time and improving the quality of life of the adoptable cats. They cuddle, play with, and give attention to cats during their stay, making them more comfortable. Cat Cuddlers also assist with customer service and basic cleaning and upkeep of the cattery. (Minimum age: 10)

Gleam Team: Volunteers bath, groom, clip nails, and trim longhaired dogs in order to make the dogs and cats look their best for adoption. Volunteers receive grooming training and those ages 14+ also receive handling training prior to participating on the team. (Minimum age: 10)

Offsite Adoption Day Team: Volunteers commit to a regular schedule and represent the HSWC at offsite events, adopt animals out, and interact with the public. Volunteers ages 14+ receive handling training prior to interacting with HSWC dogs. (Minimum age: 10)

Administrative Support: Help behind the scenes. Assist the office staff with mailings, data entry, filing, answering phones, mailing list maintenance, etc. (Minimum age: 16)

Committee Work: Serve on a HSWC Committee including Finance, Development (includes fundraising and special events), Nominating, Planning and Strategy, Marketing, and Facilities (includes grounds/building maintenance and improvement projects). Must attend scheduled meetings and participate in assignments and tasks. (Minimum age: 18)

Digital Photography for Petfinder: Petfinder volunteers come in at a scheduled time and take pictures of adoptable animals and upload photos to the Petfinder website. Participation requires completion of Petfinder training and those age 14+ also receive dog handling training. (Minimum age: 10)

Foster Home: Provide a loving foster home for dogs, cats, kittens, or puppies. Click here for more information on the HSWC foster program. (Minimum age: 18)

Retreat Team: The purpose of the dog retreat / weekender program at the Humane Society of Williamson County is to increase the number of adoptions with dogs who have been in residence for longer than 30 days. This program will allow these dogs the opportunity to interface more with the general public and thus should result in increased chances of them finding a forever home.