Most organizations help people OR pets … We help both.

At FVF, we believe no one should have to choose between shelter and the pet they love. Join us in our mission of reducing rates of homelessness among people and pets.

Requirements for Volunteers

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Application

Volunteer as a Group

Volunteer Requirements

Age

Ages 18 and up: may volunteer by themselves.
Ages 16-17: may volunteer by themselves but a parent/guardian must sign their consent on the volunteer application and liability waiver.
Ages 15 and under: must volunteer under the supervision of a parent/guardian, who has also undergone training, at all times. Volunteers under the age of 16 are not allowed to leash/unleash dogs, walk dogs alone, or be in kennels alone. Parents/guardians are responsible for the transportation, safety, and wellbeing of their volunteer on any outings with the pets or when interacting with individuals in the Building Hope program. The parent/guardian is responsible for all tasks given to them and their volunteer.
Volunteers must be at least 25 years of age to drive operate any vehicles used by Fox Valley Farms.

Basic Skills

All volunteers must have the physical ability to complete position-specific duties. Some accommodations can be made, but are not guaranteed.
Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision, while recognizing limitations in knowledge and abilities, and knowing when to ask for help. If a volunteer is unable to work independently, they must be able to work alongside a parent/guardian with a focused attention on the task at hand.
Ability to understand and follow all written and verbal Fox Valley Farms instructions and procedures.
Ability to communicate professionally and politely.

Important Information

If anyone in your group is allergic to peanuts, cats, dogs, small animals, or birds, this should be discussed with the Volunteer Coordinator prior to volunteering, as these may be present during volunteer tasks.
For groups larger than 10 that would like to volunteer, please contact us at least 5 days prior to the volunteer date.

Dress Code

As a general rule, volunteers should wear casual, comfortable clothing that can get wet, dirty, stained, or torn.

Tops: Wear a comfortable shirt, t-shirt, or sweatshirt that covers your shoulders and stomach. Tank tops, crop tops, halter tops, and low-cut shirts are not allowed.
Bottoms: Long pants like jeans, sturdy scrubs, or thick work pants are preferred to protect your from scratches and jumping animals. Shorts and skirts must be at least knee length when working with Building Hope participants. Shorts, skirts, and ripped jeans are not permitted when working with pets.
Shoes: Sandals, flip-flops, heels, and flats are strictly prohibited. Wear closed-toe shoes like sneakers or sturdy boots when working with pets.
Jewelry & Hair: When working with pets, keep jewelry to a minimum and tie back long hair. When working with food through Building Hope, you will be provided a hair net.
Identification: Always wear your volunteer lanyard or apron visibly.
Scents: For the sake of both the people and pets we work with, please avoid strong perfumes or clothes.

Volunteer Opportunities

More information coming soon!

Group Volunteer Opportunities