Volunteers with dogs

Join Our Volunteer Team

Make a difference in the lives of dogs waiting for their forever homes. Volunteer your time and skills.

Why Volunteer With Us?

Volunteering with Sahara Foundation is a rewarding experience that makes a real difference in the lives of dogs and the people who adopt them.

Make a Difference

Directly impact the lives of dogs waiting for their forever homes. Your time and care helps them heal and prepare for adoption.

Join a Community

Become part of a passionate community of animal lovers. Build friendships with people who share your values and commitment.

Gain Experience

Develop new skills and gain valuable experience in animal care, event management, social media, and more depending on your role.

Volunteer Opportunities

We have a variety of roles to match your skills, interests, and availability. Choose your mission!

Dog Walker

Take our shelter dogs for walks, providing them with exercise, fresh air, and socialization.

2-4 hours per week
On-site
Skills Needed:
Physical fitness
Basic dog handling
Reliability

Kennel Assistant

Help with daily care tasks including feeding, cleaning kennels, and providing enrichment activities.

4-6 hours per week
On-site
Skills Needed:
Physical stamina
Attention to detail
Compassion

Adoption Counselor

Guide potential adopters through the process, helping them find their perfect match.

4-8 hours per week
On-site
Skills Needed:
Communication
Customer service
Dog knowledge

Event Volunteer

Help organize and staff adoption events, fundraisers, and community outreach programs.

As needed (weekends)
Various locations
Skills Needed:
Organization
Enthusiasm
Teamwork

Foster Parent

Provide temporary care for dogs in your home until they're ready for adoption.

2-8 weeks per dog
From home
Skills Needed:
Dog experience
Patience
Nurturing

Social Media Volunteer

Help manage our social media presence, creating content and responding to inquiries.

2-5 hours per week
Remote
Skills Needed:
Social media savvy
Writing
Photography

Volunteer Stories

Hear from our amazing volunteers about their experiences and the impact they've made.

Ananya Patel
"Volunteering at Sahara Foundation has been the most rewarding experience of my life. Seeing the transformation in these dogs from scared and withdrawn to happy and trusting is incredible. I've made lifelong friends - both human and canine!"
Ananya Patel
Dog Walker & Kennel Assistant
Volunteer since 2020
Vikram Singh
"I've fostered 12 dogs so far, and while it's always bittersweet to say goodbye when they find their forever homes, knowing I played a part in their journey is worth it. The support from the Sahara team makes fostering a joy."
Vikram Singh
Foster Parent
Volunteer since 2019
Priya Sharma
"Organizing adoption events and seeing dogs meet their new families is magical. I've developed leadership skills, made amazing connections, and most importantly, helped dozens of dogs find loving homes."
Priya Sharma
Event Coordinator
Volunteer since 2021
Rahul Verma
"Using my photography and social media skills to help dogs get adopted has been incredibly fulfilling. Every share, every like, and especially every adoption that comes from our posts makes all the effort worthwhile."
Rahul Verma
Social Media Volunteer
Volunteer since 2022

Join Our Team

Fill out the form below to start your volunteer journey with Sahara Foundation.

By checking this box, you agree to our volunteer policies and consent to a background check if required for your role.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about volunteering with Sahara Foundation.

Is there a minimum age requirement to volunteer?

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old to work independently. Youth aged 12-15 can volunteer with a parent or guardian present.

Do I need prior experience with dogs?

While experience is helpful for some roles, it's not required for all positions. We provide training for all volunteers based on their assigned tasks.

What is the minimum time commitment?

We ask for a minimum commitment of 4 hours per month for at least 3 months, but this varies by role. Event volunteers may have more flexible schedules.

Can I volunteer if I have allergies to dogs?

We have several roles that don't require direct contact with dogs, such as administrative support, social media management, and fundraising.

Is there an orientation process?

Yes, all volunteers attend a 2-hour orientation session followed by role-specific training. Orientations are held twice monthly.

Can I bring my own dog while volunteering?

For most on-site roles, personal pets cannot accompany volunteers. However, there are specific events where well-behaved personal dogs may be welcome.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join our team of dedicated volunteers and help us give these dogs the love and care they deserve.

Apply Now
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