New Volunteers

There are few things as rewarding as helping a homeless animal find a new home. When you volunteer at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, you make a difference for homeless animals AND the people choosing to adopt them — and we are very grateful for your support.

You can change the world for 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 even training other volunteers 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!

Our Volunteer Requirements

• A consistent commitment to fill one volunteer shift per week 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.
• Age requirements
  • 10-15: must consistently volunteer with a guardian 
  • 16-17: legal guardian must sign the volunteer waiver 
  • 18+: no parental requirements  

How to Become a Volunteer

1. Register for and attend a Volunteer Information Session Find the next Information Session
2. After attending the Information Session, you'll fill out your application, and pay a one-time volunteer fee of $25
3. Watch the required volunteer orientation and animal behavior videos
4. Sign up for and attend an interview with a Volunteer Coordinator
5. Sign up for your position-specific training

Types of Volunteer Opportunities

You will learn about the different facets of the organization at the Volunteer Information Session.

Volunteering in the Shelter

Administrative Photographer Videographer  Animal Biography Writer Donation Bank Assistant Adoption Adoption Matchmaker Adoption Assistant Front Desk Greeter Retail Assistant Animal Care Animal Care Canine Care  Dog Walker Feline Care PetSmart Cat Assistant ARL West Cat and Small Animal Assistant  Kitten Nursery (NEW!) Grooming Assistant Shelter Cleaning Assistant Small Animal Care Hounds and Heroes Rhythms and Rescues Paws and Pages

Behavior  Dog Behavior Modification Squad Dog Behavioral Assessment Assistant  Cat Behavior Modification Squad Events Adoption Event Volunteer Community Event Volunteer  Second Chance Ranch  Barn Assistant Transport Transport Trooper

Join us for a craft night! Calling all crafty folks! We will be using donated scraps and fabrics to craft toys, blankets, and beds for our beloved furry friends! All skill levels are welcome. Fabric is provided but we could always use more cutting mats, rollers, and sewing machines.

---

Volunteering at Home

Crafting Knittin' for Kittens Sewing Club Blankets

Foster Department Home Visit Screening