Volunteers are a vital part of our organization. With their help, we are able to meet our mission, “to protect and promote the well-being of animals and foster positive relationships between animals and people.” You too can be a part of this mission and join a team of compassionate animal lovers.

How to become a volunteer

1. Attend a general orientation session. In 2008, orientation sessions are scheduled for the following dates:  

         Sunday, April 6             10 am to Noon  
         Sunday, June 1             10 am to Noon  
         Sunday, August 3         10 am to Noon  
         Sunday, October 5        10 am to Noon  

         Please RSVP to Monica Wylie 253-284-5832 if
         you plan to attend an orientation session.      

Training for specific volunteer programs will be held immediately following the Orientation, or on the following Sunday. 
               

   2.  Submit a Volunteer Application at the orientation
         session.    

FAQs

1. How old do you have to be to volunteer?
   You have to be at least 16 years old to volunteer at the shelter.
2. How many hours do I need to commit to volunteering?
   Six hours per month for a six-month period of time is the minimum requirement. This gives you time to obtain the necessary training to keep you and the animals safe.
3. What type of experience or qualifications do I need to volunteer?
   Our programs are so diverse; we can typically accommodate a wide range of skill sets.
4. What sorts of programs do you offer volunteers?
   We offer a wide variety of volunteer positions, such as:
   • Special Events: Assist with planning and conducting events such as our annual Dog-A-Thon fundraiser.
   • Bath Brigade: Bathe and groom shelter animals to improve their health and make them more adoptable.
   • Foster Program: Nurture and socialize underage puppies and kittens in your home until they are ready for adoption.
   • Adoption Outfitters / Retail Store: Assist adopters and other shelter visitors in selecting pet supplies and help fund our Humane Programs.
   • Humane Education: Teach kindness, compassion, and dog bite prevention skills to children. Assist users of our Educational Resource Library, prepare printed materials for disribution or help maintain our website.
   • Matchmaking (Pet Adoption): Assist potential adopters with the selection of a new companion animal, the adoption process and general use of resources.
   • Spay/Neuter Project: Assists low-income Pierce County residents with the spay or neuter of their pets.
   • Senior Pet Adoption: Match seniors with the right shelter pet in this special adoption assistance program.
5. Are there any special activities for teens?
   Yes, we have a Teen Club for ages 13-17. $20 membership fee - Call 253.383-2733, ext. 5870 for more information.
6. Do you have any activities for kids too young to be officially part of the volunteer program?
   Yes, many youngsters join our Junior Volunteers.    There is a $20 membership fee — call 253.383-2733, ext. 5870 for more information.

It doesn’t stop there! The Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County offers many other opportunities for volunteers to share their skills and talents. To request further information, contact the Volunteer Coordinator at 253.284.5832, or write to:

Volunteer Coordinator
The Humane Society
2608 Center Street
Tacoma, WA 98409
monicaw [at] thehumanesociety [dot] org