Youth Opportunities
VOLUNTEERING – The precious gift of time
Volunteers are critical parts of non-profits throughout the world, including here at WCHS. Our volunteers not only help to lighten the load of our staff, but by donating their time and talents, volunteers ensure that shelter operations can progress to a new level by assisting in socializing the animals, cleaning the shelter and helping at events and fundraisers. Staff and volunteers work together not only in animal care giving, but also in sharing the WCHS mission throughout the shelter and the community.
When you join WCHS as a volunteer you will become part of a team working to make our community a safer and more humane place for all living creatures. Each time you leave the shelter you will be rewarded in knowing that you’ve created one more wagging tail, a purr and a smile.
Whether it is to gain school credit, earn a troop badge or just out of the goodness of your heart, volunteering at WCHS is a beneficial way to donate your time and talents. When you volunteer you meet new friends (both human and animal), discover skills you never knew you had and make a difference in your community. Research shows that youth who volunteer are less likely to engage in risky behavior, are more likely to feel connected to their community, and tend to do better in school. Have fun while giving back.
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After School Program (A.S.P.)
A.S.P. is for students 14-17 years old looking to get experience in the animal care field. The program offers students the opportunity to learn more about the day-to-day care of WCHS’s adoptable shelter animals. Volunteer applicants should be comfortable working with all types of animals and have a willingness to learn. Responsibilities include: scooping litter boxes, cleaning cat cages, kennel touch-ups, giving potty breaks for adoptable dogs, dishes, laundry, garbage/recycling duty, and general shelter upkeep. Students commit to one day per week for 1.5-2 hours each shift. Students typically work with another student as a team and must work well in this type of setting.
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Romp With The Animals Counselor
If you enjoy both kids and animals than this is the perfect program for you! Volunteers 16 and up can fill out an application and be approved to join our committed team of camp counselors who work with the campers to ensure they have a great week at WCHS. Counselors work with the campers on crafts and assist them during the day. Camp counselors must be able to commit to a full week of camp. The program will run Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Click here to find out more about Romp With The Animals.
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Do you love to bake? WCHS has several fundraisers throughout the year and one way we raise money is by selling delicious baked treats! Depending on the fundraiser, bakers are asked to bake 2-5 dozen of their favorite cookies, bars, breads, cakes, or other goodies. Bakers must be able to deliver bakery donations to WCHS or the specified place where the event will be held. This opportunity is a terrific option for families, scout troops and other student organizations. If you are interested in baking for one of our events or bake sales, please email the volunteer coordinator at [email protected] and you will receive a Baker Application. You will get an email with the details about bakery needs when an event is coming up.
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Small Animals Program
WCHS has a variety of small animals that need handling and attention. Volunteers give these animals time out of their cages to exercise, get more comfortable being handled, and help with the adoption floor jitters. Volunteers enrolled in the Small Animal Program should be comfortable with small animals of all kinds. This program runs Monday – Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Volunteers under the age of 18 (14-17 years old) must be accompanied by a parent/guardian to participate in this program.
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Gardening Gurus
Do you love gardening and yard work? WCHS is a large facility with lots of outdoor space that needs a little tender love and care from time to time. As a part of this group, you will be added to a list of volunteers we will call upon when various landscaping projects are needed. A few regular, one day per week shifts may be open depending on the season and the need. Tasks include things like moving/transplanting plants, pulling weeds, watering, spreading mulch, lawn mowing, weed whacking, cleaning up the grass around the trees, and more!
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Special Events
WCHS has several events throughout the year and we are always looking for volunteers to help. If you have limited time, but would like to help a couple times a year, special events may be a fit for you. This can involve anything from baking, making crafts, setting up and breaking down supplies, and helping during the event. Scouts, school groups (14 years and older), and adults each can help in different ways at our events. Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator for more information.
Are you looking for a group opportunity?
Please click the button below for off-site project ideas that can be done by groups of any age! Contact the Volunteer Coordinator for more information about group opportunities.
Printed applications can be mailed to:
The Washington County Humane Society
3650 State Road 60
Slinger, WI 53086
