Become a Volunteer

Do you or someone you know have an hour or two each week that you are willing to dedicate on a regular basis to  the Animal Welfare League? We may have something that would interest you and benefit the animals.  We are always expanding the list of available opportunities for our volunteers.

Volunteer Opportunities

• Dog Walkers: The dogs need to go out first thing in the morning and again just before closing.  They appreciate a walk and a game of fetch any time of the day.
• Cat Cuddlers: Being hugged and handled allows feline personalities to
  blossom, which leads to quicker adoption.
• Kennel (dog/cat) cleaners:  All of our orphaned guests need a clean place to stay.
• Laundry Help: Freshly cleaned beds, blankets, towels, and more are needed each day.
• Gardening: Exercise your green thumb in our beautiful gardens.
• Evacuation Volunteers: Volunteers are needed to commit in the event of a hurricane evacuation to foster an animal for up to seven days.
• Clerical: Assist with mass mailings, collate information packets, data entry, update mailing lists, etc.
• Assisting at adoption and fundraising events: Opportunities to numerous to list. Check our EVENT CALENDAR
• Outreach Programs: Take our animals to meet the public at outside events.
• Working at Books n’ More: All proceeds from our booth at Sun Flea Market go to support the shelter animals.
• Pet Therapy: AWL volunteers and pets visit nursing homes and assisted living facilities giving seniors the opportunity to reminisce about the pets they loved and cared for in years past, while nuzzling furry faces and stroking soft ears.  AWL currently visits eight facilities with  requests from several more.
• Foster Homes: Numerous orphaned babies and mothers with nursing pups and kittens arrive at the shelter. Often injured, weak, ill, or frightened, these animals need gentle attention and love in the quiet comfort of a foster family’s home until they are ready to return to the shelter for adoption.

These are just a few of the many opportunities available to help the animals and spend some time with really great people.

Volunteer Requirements

If you are under 16 you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

All volunteers must attend Volunteer Orientation.  Dog walkers will also need to attend Dog Walking Class which usually follows the Volunteer Orientation.  There is an additional orientation for off-site events.

Please download and complete the Volunteer Application and Volunteer Agreement to have ready on orientation day.  Volunteer Application

Dress appropriately and wear closed-toed shoes as you will be given a tour of the shelter and grounds following orientation.

The shelter could not function without a team of dedicated and reliable volunteers.  Your help is greatly appreciated.

Feel free to contact our Volunteer Coordinator:

Patty Cook
941-625-6720 and day after 11:00 a.m.