Volunteer
Ways to Volunteer
Interested in volunteering at the shelter?
We welcome you to apply to our volunteer program if you are:
- At least 18 years old
- Able to provide at least 8 hours of service per month with a scheduled shift of two hours per week.
- Able to attend the Shelter 101 class and (3) two-hour training sessions with a mentor.
- Able to squat, bend, twist, lift, or stand for long periods when working directly with the animals.
- Possess strong customer service skills and are able to read, write and communicate clearly, since all volunteer positions work directly with the public, staff, and other volunteers.
- Have regular access to the Internet and an email account.
- Able to pay a $25 application fee (includes volunteer shirt, treat bag and clicker). This is required on your first day of training.
This shift is a 2-hour a week commitment. Available shift times are 1:30pm - 3:30pm Monday through Sunday. This shift includes stuffing Kongs, getting enrichment frisbees ready and handing out to the pups. Enrichment is what keeps the pups happy and healthy in their kennels while waiting for their new family.
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must love dogs!
- Must be able to stand and bend for extended periods of time.
- Must not have food allergies, because you will be working in a kitchen with various food items (peanut butter, dog food, various fruits and vegetables)
- Must be able to work independently & take initiative when needed.
Dogs on special diets, skinny or needing additional enrichment get an extra meal throughout the day. That's where you come in! The shift includes getting the meals together, feeding (based on a list we provide), collecting bowls and washing them at the end of your shift.
Shifts are available Monday - Sunday 12pm - 2pm.
This class is for kids 9 years - 11 years and the program fee is $40 (to cover the cost of materials)
Session II is September 8th - October 13th*
*We reserve the right to abridge the schedule if/when it conflicts with events at the shelter.
This is a non-dog handling position open to volunteers who aren’t interested in (what can be) the labor intensive shift of walking a dog. You must be 18+ years for this position. This shift can include such things as: cleaning kennels, stocking treats, helping with laundry, "Click for quiet", making adoption folders, washing bowls and assisting clients walking through the main adoption floor and more!
Shifts are available Monday - Sunday 12p-2pm & 2pm - 4pm.
Volunteer Now!
If you need help in project ideas, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at ccasv@cuyahogacounty.gov
- Must be in high school
- Decide what your project will be
- Complete the fillable application
- Download, save it and email it to ccasv@cuyahogacounty.gov
- Approval (or follow up questions) of project will be sent via email
At this time we are not able to provide this service. Check back often to see when we will resume CMCS.
Community Service is available on a first come, first serve basis. Hours are served from 9am-3pm Monday- Friday. Please contact Jen Huettich at ccasv@cuyahogacounty.gov for more information.