Volunteer
Volunteer at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Palm Springs Animal Shelter!
Our volunteers are an essential part of our mission, working alongside our staff in a variety of meaningful roles that help care for animals, support adoptions, and serve our community. Most volunteer positions require a recurring commitment of 2–3 hours per week.
If you’re interested in joining our volunteer team, simply follow the steps below to get started.
How to Become a Volunteer
Step 1: Complete an Online Application
Create a profile in Better Impact, our volunteer management system, and submit your volunteer application.
Step 2: Complete the Onboarding Process
All volunteers 16 years of age and older are required to complete a background check. During onboarding, you will also be asked to provide:
- Government-issued photo ID
- Signed volunteer waivers
- A Current Photo
Step 3: Attend Volunteer Orientation
Once your onboarding is complete, you’ll attend a volunteer orientation and be assigned to a volunteer team and schedule.
Volunteers Ages 12–15
Volunteers between the ages of 12 and 15 are welcome to apply with the following requirements:
- A parent or legal guardian must also apply and be approved as a volunteer.
- The parent or guardian must accompany the minor during all volunteer shifts.
- A separate application is required for each volunteer.
- Due to safety requirements, volunteers under 16 are currently eligible only for our Kitchen & Laundry Team and are not assigned to animal care roles.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
After creating your Better Impact profile, you’ll be able to learn more about each volunteer opportunity, including responsibilities and requirements.
Current opportunities include:
- Administrative Assistance
- Adoption Specialist
- Cat Care & Socialization
- Community Cats – Colony Care & Management
- Community Cats – TNR Clinic Support
- Community Cats – TNR Trapping
- Community Service (Academic or Court-Ordered)
- Customer Service & Concierge
- Dog Behavior Team (Puppies, Small & Large Dogs)
- Dog Socialization (TLC Ambassadors)
- Event Support
- Foster Program
- Transport Team
- Veterinary Medical Services
COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAMS
Court-Ordered Community Service
We welcome court-ordered community service volunteers. Participants are assigned to our Kitchen & Laundry Team, assisting with dishes, laundry, and general facility clean-up.
To apply, complete the standard volunteer application and select “Court Ordered” on your application.
Academic Community Service
Students needing community service hours for school are also welcome to apply.
Academic community service volunteers are assigned to our Kitchen & Laundry Team and are not eligible for animal care assignments.
When completing your application, select “Academic Community Service” and include:
- The number of hours required
- Your completion deadline
We encourage students to apply as early as possible to ensure availability.
QUESTIONS?
Our Volunteer Department is happy to help.
volunteer@psanimalshelter.org
(760) 416-5718 ext. 119
