Help make a difference in the lives of homeless pets through volunteering at the ARL. Whether you're providing enrichment and socialization for an animal, helping with essential tasks that contribute to the pets' well-being, assisting at community events, or helping animals in our community, you'll be changing the lives of thousands of pets each year. We could not do what we do without our amazing volunteers, and we're always looking for more talented volunteers to help us fulfill our mission!
How to get started
- Submit an application and complete a background check.
- When your application is accepted (within 7 days from your submission), you'll receive an email with a link to log in to our volunteer portal and register for an upcoming orientation.
- Attend a volunteer orientation, where you'll learn about the ARL's mission, history, and values, explore different volunteer roles, get a tour of our facility, and purchase your ARL Volunteer shirt.
- Sign up for a shift!
Our volunteer requirements
- A consistent commitment to fill two volunteer shifts per month for a minimum of 6 months.
- Must be able to commit to and complete the onboarding process.
- Must have a working email address
- All oncoming volunteers will be reviewed through Iowa Courts Online
- Please note: We do not accommodate individuals with past or present assault, harassment, theft, or animal abuse charges.
- Volunteers must be at least ten years of age.
- Ages 10-14 must attend their volunteer shift with a parent or guardian.
- Ages 14-17 are required to have a parent or guardian signature.
Do you have a child younger than 10 years old? Check out our For Kids page!
Types of Volunteer Opportunities
You will learn about the different facets of the organization at our Volunteer Orientation. We have volunteer opportunities in every area of our shelter!
You are welcome to browse our Opportunity Directory here:
OPPORTUNITY DIRECTORY