Volunteer and Foster Opportunities

There are a variety of volunteer opportunities in our animal shelters and facilities. Some popular roles include:

• Animal Care Support: Cleaning cat and dog kennels, enrichment and walking dogs.
• Veterinary Services Support: Assist with surgery recovery, cleaning surgery kennels, and supporting medical team members as needed.
• Adoptions Support: Assist patrons interested in Humane Colorado adoptable pets.
• Harmony Equine Center: Support team members in caring for our equines through mucking stalls and grooming.
• Homes with Hearts Foster Program: Open your home to our most in-need pets.

For more details on volunteer positions, responsibilities, and commitments, visit the volunteer opportunities overview.

Most onsite volunteer roles require a weekly 3-hour shift for at least a six-month commitment. Volunteers are always welcome to serve more often if their schedule allows.

Humane Colorado relies heavily on trained volunteers to support daily shelter operations, animal care, foster care, veterinary services, and community programs. This commitment allows us to provide consistent support for the animals in our care and ensures that volunteers remain confident and current in their training.

Working with shelter animals is very different than caring with pets in a home environment. Shelters can be a stressful environment for animals, and many pets are still building trust with staff and volunteers. For that reason, volunteers are expected to follow training, handling animals carefully, and use more caution than they might with their own pets.

Shelter volunteering can also be physically demanding. Many roles involve standing, walking, bending, cleaning, and being on your feet for a full shift. While volunteering is a meaningful and rewarding experience, applicants should also be prepared for the emotional realities of working with pets in a shelter environment. Before applying, please take time to thoughtfully consider whether this environment, commitment, and type of hands-on work is a good fit for you.

Onboarding steps vary by program, but here are some things you can expect:

Step 1: Fill out the volunteer application and pay the $30 fee. The volunteer fee helps cover the cost of volunteer supplies, such as t-shirts, nametags, keycards, and training. 

Step 2: Complete an orientation. Our virtual orientation gives you the opportunity to learn more about Humane Colorado, volunteer expectations, and program requirements.

Step 3: One-on-one phone interview with an experienced volunteer or staff member. In the interview, you’ll get a chance to learn about our available positions, schedule, and program interest. If you applied for the Homes with Hearts Foster program, you’ll discuss what types of animals you are interested in fostering.

Step 4: A quick background check is required for all volunteers over 18 years of age.

Step 5: Attend required trainings to help ensure you are prepared to work safely in a shelter environment and have the necessary skills to be successful in your volunteer assignment. An annual virtual home inspection is required for all foster parents.