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Volunteer Requirements

PLEASE READ

Minimum Requirements

• Must be at least 25 years of age.
• Must complete a volunteer application and interview process.
• Must attend required orientation and training sessions.
• Must sign all required liability, confidentiality, and safety agreements.
• Must be able to communicate effectively with staff, interns, and other volunteers.

Commitment Requirements

• Commit to a minimum of 6 months of volunteer service.
• Volunteer at least one scheduled shift per week, same day, same shift.
• Use the electronic scheduling system to sign up for shifts and notify leadership of absences as early as possible.
• Arrive on time and remain for the duration of scheduled shifts.

Physical Requirements

Volunteers should be capable of:

• Standing and walking for extended periods.
• Lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Carrying cages, food supplies, laundry, and cleaning materials.
• Performing repetitive cleaning and sanitation tasks.
• Working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions when needed.

Animal Care Expectations

• Follow all animal handling protocols exactly as instructed.
• Never provide treatment, medications, or feedings unless trained and authorized.
• Understand that wildlife rehabilitation is focused on the needs of the animals, not human interaction.
• Maintain a quiet, low-stress environment for patients.
• Respect all biosecurity and disease prevention protocols.

Professional Conduct

Volunteers are expected to:

• Treat fellow volunteers, interns, visitors, veterinarians, and staff with respect.
• Represent Acorn Acres professionally both on-site and online.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and not share sensitive case information.
• Follow directions from leadership and designated supervisors.
• Refrain from disruptive, disrespectful, or unsafe behavior.
• Will participate in our private Facebook group.
• Agrees to utilize our electronic calendar.

Safety Requirements

• Wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.
• Follow all safety protocols and use provided personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Immediately report injuries, animal bites, scratches, or safety concerns.
• Follow all state and federal wildlife regulations.

Educational Expectations

• Participate in ongoing training opportunities when available.
• Remain open to learning and constructive feedback.
• Understand that wildlife rehabilitation practices evolve based on current science and best practices.

Attendance Policy

• Excessive no-shows or last-minute cancellations may result in removal from the volunteer program.
• Volunteers who become inactive for an extended period may be required to complete refresher training before returning.

Background and Legal Requirements

• Individuals convicted of violent crimes, animal abuse, or sexual offenses are not eligible to volunteer.
• Each applicant will provide Acorn Acres with a background check (we provide you with the link).

Important Volunteer Philosophy

Acorn Acres Wildlife Rehabilitation is a medical and educational facility dedicated to providing professional care for injured, orphaned, and displaced native wildlife. Volunteers are an essential part of our mission and are expected to uphold the highest standards of animal welfare, professionalism, compassion, and teamwork.

Quality care for our patients means quality of life for our wildlife. 

Wildlife rehabilitation is not always easy. Volunteers may encounter animals that are critically ill, severely injured, or require humane euthanasia. By volunteering at Acorn Acres, individuals acknowledge that wildlife medicine can be emotionally challenging and agree to approach all situations with professionalism, compassion, and respect for the welfare of the animal.