Become an HSSC Volunteer!

Please note, applicants and volunteers must be at least 14 years old. NO EXCEPTIONS.

How to become a Humane Society of Summit County Volunteer:

Basic Requirements

To volunteer at the Humane Society of Summit County, you MUST be at least 14 years old. Minors 14-15 years old must volunteer with a parent or guardian. Parent/guardian and minor (14-15 years old) must apply separately, attend a New Volunteer Orientation together, and volunteer together at all times.

Not yet 14 years old? You can still help in many ways! Click here to learn how.
Complete a Volunteer Application

Filling out a volunteer application is the first step to becoming a HSSC volunteer. The easy-to-use online application automatically imports your volunteer profile into our database. Click here to get started!
Read the Volunteer Handbook

All HSSC volunteers must first read the General Volunteer Handbook. Access to the handbook will be sent by email after your application is approved.
Attend a New Volunteer Orientation

Meet our Volunteer Manager, receive training, and participate in a HSSC facility tour. You will learn more about what we do and how your volunteer service will help! You will also receive an exclusive HSSC volunteer t-shirt and name badge. We consider volunteers who complete orientation dedicated to the program. A non-refundable and non-transferable $15 registration fee reserves your place in orientation. Payment can be completed online, over the phone, or in person prior to attending orientation. The New Volunteer Orientation typically lasts an hour and a half, but may be as long as two and a half hours. Orientation is held once per month on either a Saturday or Thursday. Further information regarding New Volunteer Orientation is sent by email following application approval.
Maintain HSSC's Mandatory Volunteer Service Requirement

All volunteers must be able to volunteer a minimum of 4 hours per month or 24 hours over 6 months. This requirement is intended to maintain an active volunteer program and keep our volunteers familiar with our animals, activities, and shelter policies.

We respect your time and skills and strive to make your experience with us productive and rewarding. Although we require a time commitment, we encourage regular participation and value dependability in all our volunteers.