Youth Volunteering

Youth volunteers bring energy and compassion to the animals at BMHS. To support a safe environment, youth roles are tailored to age, supervision needs, and training requirements.

Age Requirements

  • Under 14: Must be accompanied for the entire shift by a parent or guardian who has completed their own application and orientation.

  • 14–15: May walk dogs only with direct supervision from an adult volunteer (18+) who has completed dog-walking orientation.

  • 16–17: May volunteer independently in most roles, including independent dog walking, after completing orientation and required training.

A parent-signed permission slip for dog walking is required at orientation for all volunteers under 18.

Youth-Friendly Volunteer Roles

  • Cat and Small Animal Socialization

  • Kennel Support (assisting with tasks that do not require heavy lifting or animal restraint)

  • Enrichment Preparation

  • Laundry, dishes, and general shelter support

  • Dog walking (age rules above apply)

  • Event support and community outreach

Getting Started

Step 1. Submit the youth volunteer application

Both youth and parent must complete online paperwork before attending orientation.

Step 2. Attend orientation

Youth and supervising adults (if required) must attend orientation together.

Step 3. Complete training modules

Training varies depending on the age of the volunteer and the positions they request.

Attendance & Commitment

  • Youth must sign in and out using Bloomerang.

  • Must meet the same monthly activity requirement as adult volunteers (one hour per month for three months after onboarding).

  • Pick-up must occur no later than 30 minutes before closing time.

Questions

Email volunteer@bluemountainhumane.org with youth-program questions.

Apply Here