Volunteer Opportunities at the Shelter and
Essential Care Center

S.T.E.P.S. (skills, training, engagement and practice for success):

Columbus Humane has many volunteer opportunities available at our shelter in Hilliard as well as our Essential Care Center on South High Street.

All volunteers begin with STEPS training, where you’ll learn how to support the critical, day-to-day work that keeps our organization running, from laundry and dishes to donation sorting. Volunteers also play an important role in our pet food pantry, helping organize supplies and provide food to families so pets can stay in the homes where they belong.

After completing STEPS training, volunteers can expand their impact through species-specific training and mentoring, with opportunities to work hands-on with dogs, cats, and pocket pets.

Columbus Humane’s volunteer program is proudly sponsored by Schoedinger Pet Services. Through their generous support, each STEPS participant receives a training manual, photo ID badge, and volunteer t-shirt. A one-time $50 mission investment is required for all new volunteers.

Opportunities for those seeking service hours outside of the volunteer program are limited, and court-ordered service hours cannot be accommodated.

Want to become a columbus humane volunteer?

Please register at the button below. Thank you for your interest in helping pets and people in our community!

Volunteer Training Process

Volunteer Training Location: 3015 Scioto Darby Executive Ct, Hilliard OH, 43026

1. Complete your registration. Once you’ve completed your registration, you'll receive a link to schedule your STEPS orientation.

   1. Please add “volgistics.com” to your safe senders and recipient list and keep an eye on your spam folder. If you do not receive your link to schedule your first training, please reach out to volunteer@columbushumane.org

2. Attend your first training. Participate in our in-person STEPS orientation, followed by species-specific training for dogs, cats or rabbits based on your volunteer interests.

3. Complete your mentoring sessions. Gain hands-on experience alongside seasoned volunteers who will help you build confidence and complete your training.

4. Start making a difference. Once your training and mentoring sessions are complete, you'll officially become part of the Columbus Humane volunteer team and you will begin scheduling volunteer shifts.

Estimated time of complete: 6-8 hours total

The STEPS program is proudly sponsored by Schoedinger Pet Services.  Thanks to their support, each STEPS class participant receives a photo ID badge and an official volunteer t-shirt. We ask all incoming volunteers to make a one-time mission investment of $50 at registration.

Opportunities for those seeking service hours outside of becoming a volunteer are minimal and limited. Court ordered service hours cannot be completed at this location. If you have any questions, please email us at volunteer@columbushumane.org.

VOLUNTEER FAQS

ARE THERE ANY REQUIREMENTS TO VOLUNTEER?

• Junior Volunteers, ages 12-15 years old, may volunteer with an Adult Volunteer Partner over the age of 21.

• Teen Volunteers are 16-17 years of age and are able to volunteer independently and must have a “Junior & Teen Volunteer Waiver and Release” form completed with guardian consent.

• Junior & Teen Volunteers must attend STEPS training. Junior Volunteers will be accompanied by their Adult Volunteer Partner at all times while volunteering at the shelter.

WHAT IF I NEED SERVICE HOURS FOR A SCHOOL OR COMMUNITY PROJECT?
We currently are not accepting volunteers for service hours at this time outside of those who go through our STEPS volunteer program to regularly volunteer at Columbus Humane. Court ordered service hours cannot be fulfilled at this location.

ARE THERE ADDITIONAL VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES OUTSIDE OF WORKING DIRECTLY WITH ANIMALS?

Absolutely! There are many ways to make a difference at Columbus Humane without working directly with animals. Volunteers can help at the Essential Care Center’s Pet Food Pantry or provide important behind-the-scenes support at our shelter, including dishes, laundry, kennel and carrier cleaning and more.

WHAT IS THE MINIMUM SERVICE REQUIREMENT TO BE AN ACTIVE VOLUNTEER AT COLUMBUS HUMANE?

We ask that active volunteers contribute at least 4 hours each month. Regular participation helps us provide consistent support to the animals and people who rely on Columbus Humane.

WHAT DO I NEED TO WEAR TO MY VOLUNTEER SHIFTS?

Please wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty, along with long pants, your official orange Columbus Humane volunteer T-shirt and volunteer badge. Depending on your volunteer role, additional attire or safety equipment may be required.

WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL VOLUNTEER SHIFTS AVAILABLE AT COLUMBUS HUMANE?

Most volunteer shifts are two hours long and are available between 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Some special events and volunteer opportunities may take place outside of these hours.

DO I NEED EXPERIENCE WORKING WITH ANIMALS BEFORE VOLUNTEERING?

While we always appreciate volunteers who have experience working with animals, no prior experience is required. We’ll provide the training and support you need to feel confident in your role, and you can participate in as many mentoring sessions as you need until you feel comfortable.

CAN I BRING MY PETS?

We love that our volunteers are animal lovers! For the safety and well-being of all the animals in our care, we ask that you leave your pets at home when volunteering at Columbus Humane.

There’s one sure way to stay connected to our work. Sign up today.