Austin Pets Alive! | Volunteer Requirements

Volunteer Requirements

Volunteers are essential to our lifesaving mission. In order for you to get the most out of your experience at APA!, there are a few requirements we ask volunteers to meet.

Volunteer Requirements Banner

Volunteer Orientation and Onboarding

Orientation and onboarding are required before you can begin volunteering with Austin Pets Alive!.

Step 1: Complete the Volunteer Application.

Step 2: The onboarding fee covers your volunteer t-shirt, your volunteer portal, and the cost it takes to execute many of our volunteer training programs. Should you not have the means to pay the fee please reach out to [email protected] and we are able to waive it for you. Watch the Volunteer Orientation Online.

Step 3: Watch the Volunteer Orientation Online.

Step 4: Complete 2 Jump Starts. One will take place at APA!, at 1156 Cesar Chavez St., and one will take place at one of our three thrift stores.

Orientation Fees

We ask for an Orientation Fee to help off-set the costs of running our volunteer program including your t-shirts, volunteer software, and associated costs it takes to execute many of our volunteer training programs. Regardless of whether you are volunteering or accompanying a minor, everyone must register. If the Orientation Fee constitutes a financial hardship for you, you may request a fee waiver by contacting us at [email protected].



$30

Contact Us

Requirements

  • Submit an online application, which includes signing a volunteer agreement and a Release and Waiver of Liability form.
  • Complete an online general volunteer orientation session.
  • Sign up and volunteer for two Jump Start activities at APA! facilities prior to participating in the various APA! Volunteer opportunities.
  • Be able to work independently and meet the volunteer requirements – including the essential capabilities of our volunteers.
  • Attend additional training sessions as required by APA!.
  • Volunteer at least monthly.
  • Treat all animals with kindness and concern for their welfare.
  • Represent yourself and APA! in a professional manner and treat clients, staff, and other volunteers with respect.

Want to learn more? Visit Our FAQs page

Age Restrictions

If a volunteer is between the ages of 12-17:

16-17 years old

Step 1- Youth submits an online volunteer application.

Step 2- Youth must complete online volunteer orientation.

Step 3- Youth must provide a completed minor waiver.

Step 4- Youth must complete two Jump Starts. Parent/legal guardian does not need to be present.

Step 5- Youth may volunteer without a parent/legal guardian

Step 6- You can find the volunteer application HERE!

Online Application    Minor Waiver

12-15 years old

Step 1- Youth and parent/legal guardian must each submit an online volunteer application.

Step 2- Youth and parent/legal guardian must each complete online volunteer orientation.

Step 3- Youth must provide a completed minor waiver.

Step 4- Youth and parent/legal guardian must complete two Jump Starts prior together prior to volunteering.

Step 5- Youth will need to volunteer with said parent/legal guardian at all times.

Online Application    Minor Waiver

Under 12 years old

While APA! recognizes that many bright minds in this age group have a philanthropic urge to help animals, APA! does not allow anyone under the age of 12 to volunteer. We encourage individuals to check out the local nonprofit Generation SERVE, which hosts monthly youth activities for APA!.

Learn more

Volunteer Application

You must complete our Volunteer Application prior to being able to complete an online orientation. After submitting the application, you will receive an email with more information.

Apply Now
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