Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of animals and your community? One of the most valuable gifts a nonprofit organization can receive is the gift of time. Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter relies on active volunteers to help keep the shelter running smoothly. We would not be able to accomplish all that we do without the enormous contributions made by our volunteers. We’re excited to have you join us! Here’s how to get started on your rewarding journey as a volunteer:  

 

Step 1: Read through the Volunteer Orientation Packet: Click Here!

 

 

Step 2: Fill Out Your Volunteer Application

Start your adventure by completing our volunteer application! If you're a youth volunteer, both you and your parent or guardian will need to fill out separate applications.

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 14 years old to join our team! (Ages 14-17): You must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

 

View Available Volunteer Roles: Click Here!

Volunteer Application: Click Here!

 

 

Step 3: Hear from Our Volunteer Coordinator

Once you’ve submitted your volunteer application, please allow 1–3 weeks for our team to review it. After your application is approved, our Volunteer Coordinator will reach out to you. If you have any questions or don’t hear back within that time frame, feel free to reach out to us — we’re happy to help!

 

 

Step 4: Dive Into Shelter Support Training 

Before you get hands-on with our furry friends, all volunteers need to complete our Shelter Support Class, followed by a Shelter Support Shift. This is your chance to learn important behind-the-scenes tasks that keep our shelter running smoothly, including:

• Washing toys and dishes
• Cleaning and folding laundry
• Sanitizing litter boxes and crates
• Restocking food, litter, and supplies
• Sweeping and mopping hallways and the kitchen

This training helps ensure a clean, safe environment for all our animals while allowing you to connect with fellow volunteers!

 

 

Step 5: Enroll in Animal-Specific Classes

Once you’ve finished the Shelter Support Class, you can sign up for our animal-specific specialties — canine and/or feline!

After the class, you'll get some hands-on experience during shadow training shifts:

• 2 shifts for cats

• 3 shifts for dogs

This is where you’ll learn the ropes and get comfortable working directly with the animals alongside our experienced team.

 

 

Parking Instructions

Please note that parking is not permitted in the main parking lot or the alleyway on Alaskan Packer Place. Instead, we encourage you to park on Fortmann Way. There is ample street parking available, making it easy for you to access our facility. Thank you for your cooperation!