Volunteering

Website Link: https://www.furryfriendsrescue.org/volunteering

Brief Description:
Volunteers at Furry Friends Rescue help save and care for homeless dogs and cats through adoption showcases, fostering, transportation, event support, and administrative assistance. As a foster-based rescue, volunteers play an important role in caring for animals and helping them find permanent homes.

Requirements:

• Ages 12–17: Eligible to volunteer in the Junior Volunteer Program (currently paused) once it resumes.

• Ages 12–17 must attend a Dog Adoption Showcase Safety Orientation with a parent or guardian.

• Commit to a minimum of 24 community service hours.

• Email the Junior Volunteer Coordinator to register for an orientation when the program reopens.

• Adult volunteer opportunities are available year-round in areas such as fostering, transportation, and adoption events.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Most volunteer positions are available throughout the year. However, the Junior Volunteer Program is currently paused, so students should check the volunteer page regularly or contact Furry Friends Rescue for updates on when youth orientations and volunteer opportunities resume.

Website Link: https://www.fremont.gov/government/departments/animal-services/tri-city/animal-shelter/support-us/volunteer

Volunteer at the Tri-City Animal Shelter by helping care for and socialize animals, assisting with shelter operations, and supporting staff with administrative tasks. Volunteers must be 18 or older, commit to a weekly 2-hour shift for at least 6 months (50 hours), and complete a background check. Opportunities are available with cats, dogs, small animals, birds, and non-animal support roles, with additional specialized volunteer positions for those with relevant experience.

Requirements

• 18 years and older

• Able to commit at least two hours a week for a minimum of six months

• Able to volunteer on weekdays and/or Saturdays between the hours of 9 and 4:30pm

• Be willing to become comfortable around animals and familiar with basic animal behavior

• Be comfortable interacting with the public

• Must be able to follow rules, policies, and procedures of the Tri-City Animal Shelter

• Be able to pass a background check which includes records check and fingerprinting

Website Link: https://www.ebparks.org/volunteer/doc-quacks-wildlife-volunteers

Brief Description:
Volunteers with Doc Quack's Wildlife Volunteers help care for injured, orphaned, and displaced native wildlife while supporting wildlife rehabilitation efforts. Opportunities include preparing food, cleaning enclosures, assisting with animal care, transporting wildlife, fundraising, administrative support, and educating the public about local wildlife conservation.

Requirements:

• Volunteers must be 16 years or older to participate independently.

• Volunteers under 18 may need parent or guardian consent.

• Complete a volunteer application and required training before working with wildlife.

• Be able to commit to scheduled volunteer shifts.

• Some positions may require additional training depending on the role.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year based on the wildlife center's needs. Students should check the volunteer page regularly or contact Doc Quack's Wildlife Volunteers directly for current openings, training dates, and application availability.

Website Link: https://ohlonehumanesociety.org/youth-volunteering/

The Ohlone Humane Society offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for youth to support animal welfare, wildlife conservation, and community education. Most activities can be completed from home or with parental supervision, allowing students to earn volunteer hours while making a positive impact on animals and the community.

Requirements

• Open to youth of all ages (some activities have minimum age requirements).

• Parent or guardian supervision is required for many activities.

• Parent/guardian must complete the required volunteer application or waiver.

• Some opportunities require completion of workbooks, activity logs, photos, or short reports/videos.

• Certain programs have additional requirements (e.g., Pet Therapy requires participants to be at least 15 years old; Social Media Creator requires volunteers to be 13+ or have a parent post on their behalf).

Website Link: https://eastbayspca.org/how-to-help/become-volunteer-foster/volunteer

Brief Description:
Youth volunteers help provide care and enrichment for shelter animals by assisting with tasks such as animal care, shelter cleaning, and enrichment activities. Depending on their age, youth may volunteer independently, with a parent or guardian, or through Humane Education Programs.

Requirements:

• Ages 16–17: May volunteer independently with a parent/guardian-signed waiver.

• Ages 10–15: Must volunteer as part of a one child/one trained adult volunteer team.

• Complete a volunteer application.

• Commit to at least 6 months or 50 hours of volunteer service.

• Complete a 2-hour online New Volunteer Info Session.

• Attend a 2-hour in-person Volunteer Orientation.

• Complete position-specific training.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available based on the shelter's current needs. Students should check the volunteer page regularly for open positions and apply when opportunities that match their interests become available.

Website Link: https://joybound.org/get-involved/volunteer/

Brief Description:
Youth volunteers help care for shelter animals, assist with adoptions, support events, and contribute to a variety of programs that improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. Volunteering is a great way to build leadership skills, gain experience, and make a meaningful impact in the community.

Requirements:

• Most volunteer opportunities are open to ages 16 and older (some roles require volunteers to be 18+).

• Complete the online volunteer orientation.

• Commit to at least 6 months of volunteering with a minimum of 8 hours per month.

• Complete any additional role-specific training if required.

• Short-term community service opportunities are not available, and volunteer hours are not signed off until the six-month commitment is completed.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer positions are available throughout the year based on organizational needs. Students can visit Joybound's volunteer page to begin the online orientation and view current opportunities. If they are unable to commit to a regular schedule, they can join the event and large project volunteer email list to be notified about one-time volunteer opportunities.

Website Link:  https://berkeleyca.gov/community-recreation/volunteering/volunteer-animal-shelter

Brief Description:
Volunteers at Berkeley Animal Care Services help improve the lives of shelter animals by providing exercise, socialization, enrichment, and care for dogs, cats, and other shelter animals. Volunteers may also serve as ambassadors by welcoming visitors and assisting guests at the shelter.

Requirements:

• Ages 16–17: May volunteer independently with parent or guardian consent.

• Ages 14–15: Must volunteer with a parent or guardian, who must also complete all required training.

• Complete an online volunteer application.

• Attend a volunteer orientation.

• Complete 6–8 hours of role-specific training.

• Commit to volunteering at least 1 hour per week for 6 months.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer applications are accepted as openings become available. Orientation sessions are posted regularly, and students should check the volunteer page frequently for upcoming orientations and application opportunities.

Website Link: https://www.alamedacreek.org/join-volunteer/volunteer.php#

Brief Description:
Volunteers with Alameda Creek Alliance help restore and protect the Alameda Creek watershed through habitat restoration, creek cleanups, native plant restoration, invasive species removal, and environmental stewardship projects. Volunteers contribute to improving local ecosystems while learning about watershed conservation and native wildlife.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages; youth volunteers may need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian depending on the event.

• No prior experience is required.

• Advance registration is recommended for most volunteer events.

• Wear closed-toe shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor work.

• Bring water and be prepared for varying weather conditions.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are offered throughout the year, with restoration and cleanup events typically held on weekends. New events are posted regularly, so students should check the volunteer calendar frequently and register in advance for upcoming projects.

Website Link: https://www.ebparks.org/volunteer/doc-quacks-wildlife-volunteers

Brief Description:
Volunteers with Doc Quack's Wildlife Volunteers help care for injured, orphaned, and displaced native wildlife while supporting wildlife rehabilitation efforts. Opportunities include preparing food, cleaning enclosures, assisting with animal care, transporting wildlife, fundraising, administrative support, and educating the public about local wildlife conservation.

Requirements:

• Volunteers must be 16 years or older to participate independently.

• Volunteers under 18 may need parent or guardian consent.

• Complete a volunteer application and required training before working with wildlife.

• Be able to commit to scheduled volunteer shifts.

• Some positions may require additional training depending on the role.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year based on the wildlife center's needs. Students should check the volunteer page regularly or contact Doc Quack's Wildlife Volunteers directly for current openings, training dates, and application availability.

Website Link: https://www.ebparks.org/volunteer/volunteer-resources

Brief Description:
Volunteers with the East Bay Regional Park District help protect and improve regional parks through habitat restoration, trail maintenance, shoreline cleanups, wildlife conservation, garden maintenance, and environmental education. Volunteers can also become trained docents, park ambassadors, or trail safety patrol members to support park visitors and educational programs.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages, depending on the specific event or program.

• Create an EBRPD volunteer account to register for most volunteer opportunities.

• Volunteers under 18 years old must have a signed parent or guardian permission form.

• Volunteers under 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Some specialized volunteer roles (e.g., docent or ambassador) require additional training.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer events are offered throughout the year at parks across Alameda and Contra Costa counties. New opportunities are added regularly, including habitat restoration, shoreline cleanups, trail maintenance, and garden projects. Students should check the volunteer calendar frequently, as events are posted on a rolling basis and many require advance registration.

Website Link: https://www.sausalcreek.org/volunteer

Brief Description:
Volunteers with Friends of Sausal Creek help restore and care for the Sausal Creek watershed through native habitat restoration, invasive plant removal, creek cleanups, tree planting, and environmental education. Volunteers work alongside staff and community members to improve local ecosystems and protect native wildlife.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages; youth under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian unless participating through an organized group.

• No prior experience is required.

• Register in advance for volunteer workdays when requested.

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor work.

• Bring water and be prepared for muddy or uneven terrain.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are offered year-round, with restoration workdays typically held on the first Saturday and third Sunday of each month, along with additional seasonal events. Students should check the volunteer calendar regularly for upcoming workdays and any schedule updates.

Website Link: https://www.fremontleaf.org/volunteer

Brief Description:
Volunteers at LEAF Urban Farm help grow fresh produce for local families while learning about regenerative agriculture and sustainable gardening practices. Volunteer activities include planting, harvesting, mulching, composting, weeding, and building garden infrastructure in a hands-on outdoor environment.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all experience levels.

• Students seeking community service hours are welcome.

• Register for a volunteer shift in advance.

• Wear closed-toe shoes and clothing appropriate for outdoor work.

• Volunteer days may be canceled due to rain or severe weather.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are offered every Monday and Thursday (10:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.) and on the second Sunday of each month (10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.). Students should register online before attending and check the volunteer page regularly for schedule updates or weather-related cancellations.

Website Link: https://livingarroyos.org/get-involved/

Brief Description:
Volunteers with Living Arroyos help restore and protect local creeks and watersheds through native habitat restoration, tree planting, invasive plant removal, creek cleanups, and environmental education. These hands-on projects help improve local ecosystems while providing volunteers with experience in environmental stewardship.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages; youth under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian unless participating with an organized group.

• No prior experience is required.

• Register in advance for volunteer events when requested.

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor work.

• Bring water and be prepared for uneven terrain and changing weather conditions.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are offered throughout the year, with habitat restoration and creek stewardship events typically held on weekends. Students should check the event calendar regularly for upcoming restoration days, tree planting events, and special community volunteer projects.

Website Link: https://www.tricityecology.org/volunteer

Brief Description:
Volunteers at the Tri-City Ecology Center help promote environmental sustainability through community gardening, habitat restoration, educational outreach, community events, and environmental advocacy. Opportunities include maintaining the Museum of Local History Garden, assisting with clean-up events, supporting fundraisers, and helping with educational programs and office tasks.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages and experience levels.

• High school students may be eligible to earn community service hours.

• Some activities may require contacting the organization in advance to sign up.

• No prior environmental experience is required for most volunteer opportunities.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year. Recurring opportunities include the Museum of Local History Garden on the second Saturday of each month (9:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.), office assistance on Thursdays, seasonal community events such as Earth Day and Make-a-Difference Day, and wetland clean-up projects. Students should check the volunteer page regularly or contact the organization for upcoming events and volunteer openings.

Website Link: https://www.msnucleus.org/classes/tule.htm

Brief Description:
Volunteers at Tule Ponds help restore and maintain a 17-acre urban wetland through hands-on environmental conservation projects. Activities include removing invasive plants, planting native species, collecting seeds, composting, tree care, and habitat restoration while learning about local ecology and wetland conservation.

Requirements:

• Primarily open to high school students seeking community service hours.

• No prior experience is required.

• No registration is needed for regular Saturday volunteer days—students may drop in.

• Wear clothes suitable for outdoor fieldwork and closed-toe shoes.

• Volunteer sessions may be canceled during rainy weather.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are offered every Saturday from 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. throughout most of the year. Students can drop in during scheduled workdays, but should check the Tule Ponds volunteer calendar before attending for any schedule changes or weather-related cancellations.

Website Link: https://www.reapcenter.org/volunteering#volunteering-individual-volunteers

Brief Description:
Volunteers with REAP Climate Center support environmental sustainability and climate action through community gardening, urban farming, tree planting, educational workshops, food distribution, and outreach events. Volunteers help improve local food security while promoting environmental stewardship and climate resilience in the Tri-City community.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages; youth volunteers are welcome.

• No prior experience is required.

• Register in advance for volunteer events when requested.

• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor work.

• Some projects may require a signed waiver or parent/guardian permission for minors.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year, with community garden workdays, tree planting events, food distribution projects, and environmental workshops held regularly. Students should check the volunteer calendar or social media pages frequently for upcoming events and registration details.

Website Link: https://www.reapcenter.org/volunteering#volunteering-individual-volunteers

Brief Description:
Volunteers with REAP Climate Center support environmental sustainability and climate action through community gardening, urban farming, tree planting, educational workshops, food distribution, and outreach events. Volunteers help improve local food security while promoting environmental stewardship and climate resilience in the Tri-City community.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages; youth volunteers are welcome.

• No prior experience is required.

• Register in advance for volunteer events when requested.

• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor work.

• Some projects may require a signed waiver or parent/guardian permission for minors.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year, with community garden workdays, tree planting events, food distribution projects, and environmental workshops held regularly. Students should check the volunteer calendar or social media pages frequently for upcoming events and registration details.

Website Link: https://www.reapcenter.org/volunteering#volunteering-individual-volunteers

Brief Description:
Volunteers with REAP Climate Center support environmental sustainability and climate action through community gardening, urban farming, tree planting, educational workshops, food distribution, and outreach events. Volunteers help improve local food security while promoting environmental stewardship and climate resilience in the Tri-City community.

Requirements:

• Open to volunteers of all ages; youth volunteers are welcome.

• No prior experience is required.

• Register in advance for volunteer events when requested.

• Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor work.

• Some projects may require a signed waiver or parent/guardian permission for minors.

When to Check for Opportunities:
Volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year, with community garden workdays, tree planting events, food distribution projects, and environmental workshops held regularly. Students should check the volunteer calendar or social media pages frequently for upcoming events and registration details.