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Group of volunteers gather for a photo

Get Involved

Volunteer

Volunteer at EHS

An Opportunity to Make a Difference

Volunteers are the driving force that stands right alongside our dedicated staff at the Erie Humane Society. Their commitment, compassion, and teamwork are essential to the success of our mission to provide second chances to animals in need. As an invaluable extension of our daily operations, volunteers assist with socialization, exercise, essential shelter tasks, and fundraising events. Their efforts enhance the quality of care we provide and ensure every animal receives the attention, enrichment, and love they deserve on their journey to a forever home. We are always looking to expand our network with community members interested in getting involved.

Volunteer sitting with shelter dog at a fundraising event

Opportunities Available

There are plenty of opportunities available for you to get involved at EHS! Our volunteer coordinator will work with you to identify your areas of interest and assist you with committing to a volunteer role that fits your schedule and lifestyle.

Opportunities include, but are not limited to:

  1. Cats

    Socialization, enrichment, and exercising shelter cats

  2. Dogs

    Socialization, enrichment, and exercising shelter dogs
    Walking dogs around the EHS Campus
    Playing in EHS dog parks
    Playgroups with EHS dogs (additional training required)
    Doggy day trips
    Running with shelter dogs

  3. Around the Shelter and Beyond

    Laundry assistance
    Grounds maintenance
    General cleaning and organizing
    Transport driving

  4. Fundraisers and Events

    Assist with any help needed to execute fundraisers and events organized by or in support of EHS

Join Our Volunteer Team!

1. Attend Orientation

Attend a volunteer orientation session to see if our program is a good fit for you. We hold orientations approximately every other month. Orientations go over the mission and goals of the Humane Society, explain current volunteer opportunities, and includes a tour of the shelter.

Register for available dates below.

2. Complete a Volunteer Application

You've attended volunteer orientation. You've evaluated your level of commitment. Is our program a good fit for you?

If you're ready to commit to a volunteer role, the next step is to complete a volunteer application. The application will be provided following the completion of your orientation.

Volunteers excited to participate at a fundraiser

Requirements

  • Volunteers must be 18+ to volunteer independently.
  • Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian volunteer at all times. Junior volunteers should be at least 6 years old.
  • To remain "active", you must volunteer a minimum of two (2) times per month.
    • BONUS PERK! Volunteers with an "active" status receive 10% off merchandise in our Wags to Riches retail shop!

Volunteer Orientation

Thursday, December 18, 2025
4:30 pm5:30 pm

Join us for Volunteer Open Orientation! This session is the first step toward becoming part of our incredible volunteer team. Learn about our mission, programs, and the many ways volunteers support the shelter—from walking dogs and socializing cats to assisting at fundraising events and helping with daily operations.

Not Able to Commit to Regularly Volunteering at EHS?

You can still help make an impact on the lives of our shelter pets!

Learn more about a variety of ways you can help on your terms.
  • Report Animal Cruelty
    If you witness or suspect an act of cruelty against an animal call 814-881-0220.
    All complaints are held in strict confidence and all callers are anonymous.
    Learn More

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