Volunteer Opportunities
OCHS relies heavily on volunteers. We’re always in need of dedicated and committed volunteers who want to support our organization. There are many opportunities to volunteer, and a variety of skills and talents are always in need. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can complete an application online using the link below, in person at the shelter, or at our Thrift Shop on Bay Street.
When we receive your completed application, you’ll be contacted for an interview. Once you’ve been accepted into our volunteer program, the staff will conduct initial training for the specific area the volunteer has been assigned to. We believe that it’s important for all of our volunteers to understand how our organization runs and how we support each other in our mission to save our animals, so volunteers are required to attend an orientation held at a later date.
Volunteer Roles
We offer a variety of volunteer opportunities and we welcome volunteers of any age. The following are just some of the tasks needing volunteer help.
Animal Shelter
Our shelter depends on volunteers to assist the staff with the daily needs of our animals.
- Cat and Kitten Area Cleaning
- Cat and Kitten Socialization
- Dog Kennel Cleaning
- Dog Walkers / Socializing
- Office Tasks
- Spay/Neuter Recovery
- Animal Transport
- Foster Care Homes
Thrift Store
Our store on Bay Street provides the major support for our organization and our animals.
- Cashier
- Receive and sort goods
- Moving and arrange merchandise
- Pickup and delivery
Adult Volunteers
Adult volunteers must be 18 years of age. A minimum commitment of eight hours per month is requested and the intent to serve for at least six months.
Young Adult Volunteers (16 to 18 years old)
Young people 16-18, may volunteer without a parent or guardian in attendance. It’s our hope and expectation that the Young Adult volunteer can donate eight hours a month, and commit to volunteer for at least six months.
The Young Adult volunteer must complete and submit a Volunteer Application with his/her parent or guardian co-signing the Volunteer Application and Waiver.
Youth Volunteers (under 16)
Youth volunteers are under the age of 16 and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times while they are volunteering. The youth volunteer must complete a Volunteer Application, and the volunteer’s parent or guardian must also complete a Volunteer Application and Waiver.
We ask that the youth volunteer donate a minimum of three hours a month, and commit to volunteer for at least six months.
Other Areas
We have other areas where volunteers are needed. Here are some examples:
- PAWliday Store
- Annual Gala
- Bottle Collection and Drop
- Landscape and Maintenance
- Grant Writing
- Community Events
- Publicity and Promotions
- Photography
- IT
- Graphic Design
- Website Management
- Writing Blogs