We will be hosting two orientations for people interested in volunteering. April 13 at 6pm, and April 24 at 2pm. In order to participate, please fill out a volunteer application by April 10 (link below).
We are very limited in the number of volunteers that can work with animals, due to DNR regulations. For Spring/Summer 2024, we estimate that we will have 2-3 volunteer positions available in animal care.
Volunteers are critical to the efficient running of Wildwoods. There are many tasks that need to be completed on a daily and weekly basis. Volunteers not only care for animals hands-on, but are also needed to clean and disinfect cages, wash dishes, fold laundry, prepare food, and clean the facility and common areas. There are no small jobs here at Wildwoods. They are all necessary for the health of the animals as well as for us. We ask that our volunteers have a willingness to help out wherever needed and not only on favored tasks. Please note that wildlife rehabilitation is seasonal, with the “busy” season being between mid-April and mid-October. Applicants who apply in the middle of or at the end of the current season may not be called on until the next spring.
What we’re looking for
- Reliability
- Self-starters who can take initiative
- People who can follow instructions and who are not afraid to ask questions and seek help
- Individuals who agree with our mission, values and goals
- Volunteers who are at least 16 years old and have reliable transportation
We have different opportunities to volunteer based on skill set or desire. Whether you choose to do animal care, transportation, marketing, data entry or anything else, there are a few policies that every volunteer must agree and adhere to.
- Follow policies and procedures set forth by staff
- Maintain a quiet and calm demeanor around wildlife; keep handling, talking, and loud noises to a minimum
- Communicate any schedule changes with staff, and in a timely manner
- Maintain a positive and respectful attitude
- Follow proper sanitation procedures
Vaccinations
Every volunteer must have proof of a tetanus vaccination within the last 10 years. Any volunteer wishing to work with rabies-vector species like raccoons, foxes or bats must provide proof of a rabies vaccination and titer test within the last 2 years.
Physical Requirements
The physical requirements of each volunteer position type are different, and you can read more about the specific demands of each on their descriptions below. For example, Animal Care volunteers must be able to work in a fast-paced and fairly physically demanding environment, while transportation volunteers must be able to sit for long periods of time and lift up to 50 lbs into/out of their vehicles.
More Information
We are looking for volunteers to commit to 2 hours a week for a minimum of 8 consecutive weeks from April – October. The shifts are available 7 days per week and run from 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. Pick a shift that you can regularly volunteer with us!
Available Positions
Animal Care
This is by far the most popular way to volunteer with Wildwoods. It’s a life-altering experience to hold a helpless animal in your hands and help them heal, grow, and finally be released to live the life they were meant to live. Animal Care Volunteers must be able to commit to at least one two-hour shift per week through the season (Mid-May through October), and be willing to complete a wide range of tasks including, but not limited to, preparing meals, cleaning cages, washing dishes, and maintaining accurate animal care logs. Read more…
Animal Transportation
This is a great volunteer opportunity for anyone who has a flexible schedule and a car. When we have an animal that is beyond our ability to help, we need to get them to a specialized facility like The Raptor Center in St. Paul or Wild And Free in Garrison, MN. At other times, we may call on you to drive to other areas to pick up injured wildlife and bring them to us. Our Animal Transportation Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license and their own reliable vehicle that is clean, quiet, pet-free and smoke-free. Read more…
Education
One of Wildwoods’ primary goals is to educate the public about wildlife. Education volunteers may be asked to give presentations at schools or libraries, run informational booths at festivals and special events, or create videos, brochures or other materials that are designed to inform the public on a particular topic. If you have ideas for educational opportunities, we’d love to hear them!
Internships
Internship for 2024 have been filled. Each season (Mid-May through October) Wildwoods has a handful of paid and unpaid internship positions available. Paid interns receive a monthly stipend, and will be required to help staff examine incoming animal admits, administer medications, assist in developing care plans, train and supervise volunteers, and other tasks as assigned by staff. Read more…
How to volunteer
- Read our volunteer position descriptions to find a good fit for you.
- Complete an Application.
- We will reach out to you via e-mail with the date of our next orientation (expect an e-mail from us in January 2023 for this winter!).
- Attend our online orientation and discuss with our Wildwoods staff your areas of interest.
- Please note, we have very few positions available for direct animal care due to DNR regulations, but there are other ways to help!