How many hours do junior volunteers need to commit to?Junior volunteers must complete a minimum of 2 hours a month. You are welcome and encouraged to visit as often as you can, and log more than 2 hours!
Can I volunteer with another junior volunteer?Yes, as long as at least one of the parents/guardians is also present. There is a limit of two junior volunteers per parent/guardian.
Can I volunteer with my sibling?Yes, but your sibling must be over the age of 18 to be considered a parent/guardian figure. They must also have gone through the application and orientation process and be a registered volunteer.
My child wants to volunteer in cat adopt, but I'm allergic. Can they still volunteer in the room alone?No, they would not be able to volunteer in any adoption room without direct supervision. Parents or guardians must be with the junior volunteer at all times. They may volunteer with a sibling that is over 18 or an alternative guardian that has completed volunteer application and orientation if that is the case.
My child is under 12, but very mature. Can they be a junior volunteer?Unfortunately no, we cannot approve any applications for children under 12 to be apart of our junior volunteer program due to liability limitations. We also limit the age due to high demand, so that we can best serve those who are currently enrolled in the program.
Do you provide junior volunteer service groups?No, unfortunately, we are not able to provide that service at this time due to liability limitations. We are able to do tours for small groups of children, but not service groups.
My child wants to volunteer, but I am not able to become a registered volunteer. What now?A guardian over the age of 18 is acceptable, as long as they complete the application and orientation process to become a registered volunteer. They must also sign a waiver stating that they are responsible for the junior volunteer while they are visiting the shelter.
I can only volunteer in the summer. Can I still be a junior volunteer?Currently, we are not able to offer a summer volunteer program. We ask for a 6-month commitment for volunteering to keep a stable and consistent volunteer base. You can complete hours at home during the school year as well by completing projects such a blanket making, making cat toys, etc. Reach out to our
volunteer coordinator for more ideas on how to complete your hours during the school year!
SFAHS does not have the facilities to provide reading groups. Registered JR Volunteers may read to the animals with their parent or guardian present, but we are unable to accommodate unregistered volunteers or groups of minors.
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