MAKE A DIFFERENCE
be part of the rescue
Volunteers are the heart of everything we do, and whether you’re helping onsite at our rescue or supporting remotely, every role plays a vital part in the daily care of the animals who depend on us.
Looking for a breath of fresh air, a break from the usual routine, and a chance to make a real difference for rescued animals? Whether you’re an individual or part of a group looking to give back, join us for a Volunteer Work Day, happening the second Saturday of every month!
MONTHLY WORK DAYS
Looking to make a difference, get your hands a little messy, and spend time with amazing animals? Whether you have a few hours or want a regular commitment, there’s a volunteer role here for you! From outdoor animal care and education to behind-the-scenes support and remote opportunities, every task helps our rescue thrive.
volunteer roles
ANIMAL CARE SHIFT
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | ONSITE
Weekdays & Weekends
Mornings 8 AM–12 PM | Evenings 4 PM–8 PM
Perfect for active, outdoor people who love fresh air and light exercise! Help feed and water our animals, collect eggs, and guide birds into predator‑proof enclosures at sunset. You may also assist with cleaning cages for animals under medical care.
BABY BIRD FEEDING
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | SEASONAL | ONSITE
Weekdays & Weekends
8 AM–11 AM | 11 AM–2 PM | 2PM–5 PM | 5PM–8 PM
Baby Bird Orientation required
This seasonal role runs from early April to early October, following the hatching of songbird babies. Duties include feeding, keeping babies and cages clean, food prep, and light housekeeping.
HOTLINE VOLUNTEER
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | REMOTE
Weekdays & Weekends
Mornings 8 AM–12 PM | Evenings 4 PM–8 PM
You can help orphaned and injured wildlife from anywhere! As a hotline volunteer, you’ll assist finders with questions, arrange referrals, provide advice, and coordinate transport to CWR. Requires basic computer skills and internet access. This vital role keeps animals safe and connected to care. Email hotline@cwrescue.org for training.
HANDY PERSON
FLEXIBLE | ONSITE
Like working with your hands or organizing? Help with a variety of projects such as fixing fences, repairing hoses, or organizing cabinets and sheds. Keep our rescue functional and efficient while putting your skills to good use.
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | ONSITE
Weekdays & Weekends
Mornings 8 AM–12 PM | Evenings 4 PM–8 PM
Enjoy keeping things tidy? Help with laundry, dishes, floor cleaning, and occasional small animal care, keeping our rescue running smoothly behind the scenes.
INDOOR CARE
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | ONSITE
Weekdays & Weekends
Orientation NOT required
Easily the most beloved volunteer by our animals! Sort and chop fresh produce, then head outside to distribute it across the yards—and feel the love from our residents as you go.
PRODUCE PREP
SOCIAL MEDIA MODERATOR
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | REMOTE
Weekdays & Weekends
Mornings 8 AM–12 PM | Evenings 4 PM–8 PM
Promote CWR’s mission online by managing and developing our social media presence. Encourage engagement, share news and events, and help reach a wide local and diverse audience. Strong communication skills and an ability to respond thoughtfully to comments are essential.
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | ONSITE
Weekdays & Weekends
Mornings 8 AM–12 PM | Evenings 4 PM–8 PM
Enjoy interacting with the public? Help with administrative tasks like greeting visitors, assisting with intakes, data entry, and keeping front office areas tidy. Strong people and organizational skills are a plus.
ANIMAL TRANSPORTER
FLEXIBLE | REMOTE & ONSITE
Weekdays & Weekends
Love driving and adventure? Respond to calls for injured or orphaned wildlife, safely capture them, and transport to the rescue, vets, or release sites. Decide your availability through our volunteer alert system and sometimes work with other volunteers or staff.
PRODUCE PICKUP
WEEKLY COMMITMENT | REMOTE & ONSITE
Weekdays & Weekends
Orientation NOT required
Short on time? Help by collecting donated produce from designated locations and bringing it to the rescue. Every contribution keeps our animals well-fed and cared for!
EDUCATION & OUTREACH
FLEXIBLE | REMOTE & ONSITE
Share your love of wildlife by visiting schools, scout troops, fairs, and community events. Discuss wildlife, our rescue, and environmental awareness. Great for students in environmental studies, teaching, or anyone passionate about educating others.
FUNDRAISING & GRANTS
FLEXIBLE | ONSITE
Support CWR by helping secure funding opportunities. Focus areas include applying for grants, making thank-you calls to donors, and researching additional fundraising avenues. Play a crucial role in sustaining the rescue’s mission.
SIGN UP
Follow this link to register as a volunteer and schedule your orientation.
requirements
Must be at least 16 years old with reliable transportation
Able to lift 25 lbs and in generally good health
Volunteers working with animals must have a current tetanus booster and cannot be immunocompromised or TB-positive
All onsite roles require a 2.5-hour orientation (Baby Songbird Feeding requires video training instead)
Weekly volunteers commit to one 4-hour shift at the same day/time each week for a minimum of 4 months (with flexibility for occasional conflicts)
ORIENTATION
Orientations are held the first Saturday and third Sunday of each month from 10 AM – 12:30 PM at the rescue.
On-site weekly volunteers must attend this 2.5-hour session, led by staff or experienced volunteers. It’s an interactive opportunity to ask questions and find the role that best fits your skills and interests. Orientations begin promptly at 10 AM, and pre-registration is required by emailing volunteer@cwrescue.org.
ARRIVE PREPARED
Duration & Purpose: Allow 2.5 hours for orientation. This interactive session gives you the chance to ask questions and ensures both CWR and the volunteer position are a good fit before you commit.
What to Expect: In addition to reviewing CWR policies, you’ll tour our 13-acre property, learn opening and closing duties, meet resident animals, and hear about other volunteer opportunities.
Weather & Attire: Orientations and tours happen rain or shine—dress appropriately. Rubber or waterproof boots are required for biosecurity, and you will disinfect your shoes in a bleach bath before entering the rescue and/or animal yards.
Bring With You: A water bottle for hydration.
Valuables: Lockers are available but may be in use; we recommend leaving valuables at home or in your trunk. CWR is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Parking: Limited parking is available in front of the animal drop-off building, along the privacy fence, or in the small gravel lot (may be filled by regular volunteers). Overflow parking is at 5415 Poplin Rd. on the grass.