General Volunteer Process
Application
The best way to complete a volunteer application is online unless indicated otherwise. Potential volunteers that apply will be contacted via email if availability exists in any opportunity that you have listed. An application is necessary for your volunteer file and provides us with a signed release and consent form to complete a criminal background check*. Due to the large volume of applications received, we will not contact you directly upon receipt of your application. *Criminal background check – We do not accept any individuals with offenses relating to convictions including, but not limited to, animal cruelty or neglect, theft, drugs, or violence.
Training
We provide training to prepare you for your assignments, as we want you to be safe and effective in your volunteer role. Our Shelter Volunteer Coordinator provides assignment-specific training for your knowledge and safety. Volunteer coaches are an extension of the Shelter Volunteer Coordinator, and they will help you individually with your assignment. As another component of your training, you will receive necessary on-board materials such as our Volunteer Manual, from your volunteer coaches. Please note that we do not provide medical insurance for volunteers at the APL.
On-boarding Supplies
Please note that we require volunteers working at the shelter to make a $10 refundable security deposit for your key card to access the shelter. Your on-boarding supplies, including your volunteer parking pass, are available for you to pick up from the Shelter Volunteer Coordinator before your first individual shift. Volunteer T-shirts are optional and are available for purchase through our Adoption Associates during regular shelter hours. They are either $10 or $13 with tax included depending on the style selected.
Scheduling & Commitment
Scheduling allows us to utilize your time efficiently and effectively while meeting our organizational needs. Since we rely on our volunteers to help us provide excellent service and care for our animals and clients, those assignments with duties relating to this will be encouraged to have regular weekly scheduling such as the same day and time each week if possible and a commitment of at least two or more hours per shift each week.
A commitment of 4-8 hours per month is necessary for most volunteer assignments unless otherwise noted. Volunteers may also give extra time during open scheduling times and when additional help is necessary. Many volunteers find a regular schedule helpful as it allows them to build this important time into their routine although we do understand when some flexibility may be necessary. We utilize an online communication and scheduling system to help with this.
Communication
We strive to keep volunteers informed and updated at the APL. Most of our communication is provided via email. Therefore, volunteers are highly encouraged to have a valid email address that will aid with communication. Familiarity with other communication systems such as Facebook, Zoom, MS Teams, and VicNet from Volgistics are helpful also. We recognize the need for good reciprocal communication, especially when there are changes made when volunteers may not be present. We employ a variety of vehicles to help aid communication; however, the lack of a valid email address may cause communication to suffer. Volunteers will be provided with ongoing communication and support from other volunteers, staff, volunteer coaches, Shelter Volunteer Coordinator and the Volunteer Manager throughout your volunteer experience.
Other Ways to Help
If you can’t give your time but still want to help, you can:
We appreciate your support however best for you to do this – thank you!
Have questions?
Please email us at
volunteer@clevelandapl.org. You can also refer to our Volunteer FAQ's.
