Q: My 12-year old loves animals and wants to volunteer at your location. How do we get started?
A: On-site volunteers must be at least 18 years old. However, we have plenty of fun ways for younger kids to help out. (Learn more here.) And we’re happy to give your kids service credit for school. Just have a parent supervise the activity and track the time spent.
Q: I have some time and want to volunteer. How do I get started?
A: First, thank you for considering volunteering with us! Before you apply, take a look at our volunteer options. Then fill out the application. It takes us about a week to process the form and send you a welcome packet by email. We may call or email you if we need additional information.
In your welcome packet, you’ll find the information and instructions for scheduling your orientation. And once you complete orientation, you can get started volunteering!
Q: We have a group of kids who would like a tour. How can we arrange that?
A: We no longer offer tours, but we’re happy to see if we can schedule a volunteer presentation for your group. Our volunteer can tailor the presentation to your needs. You can request a speaker with this form.
Q: My company is interested in partnering with HSFC, and we would like for you to place our company’s link on your web site. How might we go about this?
A: We always appreciate requests to partner with community-minded businesses. Potential partners should know, however, that we have a policy of not promoting any specific companies unless there’s an event sponsorship opportunity where sponsors are recognized. If you’re interested in a partnership, contact our main office at 703-385-7387.
Q: I have court-ordered community service requirements and want to get started right away.
A: Court-ordered community service works a little differently from our regular volunteer corps. Please call our main office at 703-385-7387 or email pets@hsfc.org to discuss your CS requirement.
We’ll need to know the required number of hours and the offense. Our manager will determine whether we have sufficient work to meet your needs and identify which of our areas may be appropriate.
If you begin volunteering with us under a CS requirement and later decide to stay on long-term, we’ll ask you to submit a regular volunteer application and agreement at that time.