Don’t Forget the Kids! Utilizing Youth Volunteers in Direct Animal Care

There is a vast and important resource untapped by the animal sheltering world – teenagers! Removing unnecessary “18 and over” age restrictions for direct animal care enables shelters to participate in the development of future animal welfare advocates . . . and in the process the animals in our care get loads of attention and promotion. This session explores how to create a youth volunteer program that supports your mission while providing a safe and welcoming environment for youth. You’ll learn how to recruit, train, manage and support youth volunteers and how to gain organizational buy-in from shelter administrators and staff.

Intended audience:  Basic