How Do I Become a Volunteer?
The first step is to complete a volunteer application form. Links to the volunteer application forms are on this website.
How About Training?
You will need to attend a training session on the cat or dog side of PAWS before you can begin volunteering with the cats or dogs. Please check our website for training dates and times.
What Happens After Training?
You will be contacted by one of our mentor coordinators to be scheduled for your first shift and paired up with a Mentor. Your Mentor will provide on-the-job training so that you're comfortable and well prepared to volunteer on your own.
Do I Need to Volunteer on the Same Shift Every Week?
We welcome you to volunteer on a regular basis or an occasional basis, as your personal schedule allows. If everyone trained would volunteer just once a month we could cover all of our volunteering needs!
Can My Child Volunteer?
Yes! If your child is 13 years or older, she or he can volunteer with you. Children under the age of 18 who volunteer must be accompanied and supervised by a parent, legal guardian, or an authorized "responsible adult" (21 or older). Both the youth and adult need to attend a training class.
As a Volunteer, What Is My Child Allowed to Do?
On the cat side, volunteers 13 years of age and up can work alongside their guardian as Cat Care volunteers. On the dog side, youth volunteers 13 and older are permitted to work in the kennels in a limited capacity and go on dog walks with their guardian.
All youth volunteers must come with a trained adult until they are 18 years old. These guidelines are based on insurance and liability issues, and are not a reflection on your child's experience or competency with cats or dogs.
Join the PAWS volunteer team today, and help make a difference to Centre County's animals!