Support Specialized Rehabilitation with DaphneyLand Basset Hound Rescue at the Ranch
DaphneyLand Basset Hound Rescue relies on the dedication of hands-on volunteers to maintain their unique five-acre "Basset Rescue Ranch" in Acton. Volunteers play a vital role in the daily care of 75–100 Basset Hounds and mixes, performing essential tasks such as cleaning kennels, picking up in the yard, and washing food and water bowls. Beyond the physical labor, they invite volunteers to provide the one-on-one contact these hounds crave—whether it's giving a much-needed bath, brushing a long-eared friend, or simply calling a dog's name and offering a kind gesture. By spending just a few hours a week at the ranch, volunteers help provide the socialization and "pack environment" rehabilitation that prepares these special-needs and senior hounds for their future forever homes. This role is perfect for those who want to experience a unique, no-kill facility focused on hounds that require extra care and behavior modification. Minors must be with an adult
Empower Shelter Pets with the Downey Animal Care Center through Volunteerism
Downey Animal Care Center relies on dedicated community members to improve the daily lives of shelter animals while they wait for their forever homes. Volunteers in this role provide essential exercise, basic obedience training, and social interaction for dogs, cats, and rabbits, which significantly increases their chances of being successfully adopted. Participants can also assist by photographing animals for social media and acting as "Shelter Hosts" to greet the public and help potential adopters find a great match. By committing just a few hours each month, their volunteers directly impact the well-being of local animals and support the care center’s lifesaving mission. New volunteers must complete an online application and attend a mandatory orientation. They request a minimum commitment of 8 hours per month for at least 9 months to maintain consistency for the animals and the facility. Must be 16 or older; minors 16–17 require parental consent
Find a Best Friend with the Downey Animal Care Center at their Pawscars Adoption Showcase
Downey Animal Care Center celebrates the unique personalities of its resident pets through a month-long series of "Pawscars" adoption events held every day at the care center. They invite the community to visit and meet a wide variety of dogs and cats that are ready to bring joy and companionship to a new home. These daily showcases are designed to highlight the diverse breeds and temperaments available, making it easy for families to connect with a pet that fits their lifestyle. Their staff and volunteers are on-site to facilitate introductions and provide information on the adoption process, ensuring a smooth transition for both the pet and the owner. Visitors can view adoptable pets during public hours and speak with adoption counselors to learn about specific animal needs and history. Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Join the Ranch Crew at a Hanaeleh Horse Rescue Community Work Day
Hanaeleh Horse Rescue opens their ranch to the public for large-scale maintenance and improvement projects designed to keep the facility safe and beautiful for the resident horses. These events are perfect for individuals or families who want to give back without a weekly commitment. Volunteers assist with various ranch chores, which may include painting, mending fences, or clearing brush. While they welcome volunteers of all ages, they suggest that children under 10 participate in private tours instead, as most work projects are better suited for older children and adults.
Commit to Animal Wellness with Hanaeleh Horse Rescue Weekly Horse Care
Hanaeleh Horse Rescue offers a structured program for dedicated individuals who can commit to one morning per week, Monday through Saturday. Volunteers in this program learn the essential "ins-and-outs" of running a horse rescue, including mucking out stalls, cleaning feed bins, and feeding the herd. This is a physically demanding role that requires the ability to lift up to 40 pounds and stand for four hours on uneven, inclined terrain. After completing four shifts, volunteers are paired with a "buddy" to begin learning how to handle the horses directly, ensuring a consistent and safe environment for the animals.
Organize a Service Project with Hanaeleh Horse Rescue for Your Community Group
Hanaeleh Horse Rescue welcomes school groups, Scouts, church organizations, and even specialized groups like Reiki practitioners to visit the ranch for service and learning. They typically schedule these larger groups to coincide with their public workdays, allowing teams to collaborate on significant service projects. For groups primarily interested in meeting the horses and seeing the facility rather than performing manual labor, they encourage scheduling a private tour to ensure a meaningful and educational experience for all participants.
Champion Wildlife Conservation with the International Rhino Foundation through Global Advocacy
Helping Rhinos engages a global network of volunteers to support the protection and expansion of rhino populations across Africa and Asia. During Earth Month, they seek "Rhino Ambassadors" to help spread awareness about the critically endangered status of the five remaining rhino species through digital advocacy and local community outreach. Volunteers assist by sharing educational resources, participating in virtual fundraising workshops, and helping to document conservation success stories like the recovery of the Greater One-Horned Rhino. This remote-friendly role allows individuals to contribute to international wildlife protection from their own communities. Supporters can help raise funds for anti-poaching units and habitat restoration projects by organizing local awareness events or participating in coordinated social media campaigns.
Energize Shelter Dogs with LA Animal Services through Canine Exercise
LA Animal Services are looking for active individuals to help with dog walking, kennel cleaning, and bathing. These tasks are vital for maintaining a sanitary environment and providing the dogs with the enrichment they need to stay healthy and happy while waiting for homes. 12+; 12–15 must be with an adult sponsor at all times.
Comfort Small Animals with LA Animal Services through Socialization
LA Animal Services invite volunteers to spend time petting and comforting cats and rabbits. This "low-impact" role is perfect for those who want to provide a soothing presence and help small animals feel secure in a busy shelter setting. 12+; 12–15 must be with an adult sponsor
Soothe Shelter Residents with LA Animal Services through the Reading Program
LA Animal Services facilitate a calming environment where volunteers read books to dogs, cats, and rabbits. This program is specifically designed to reduce the stress levels of the animals and help them develop trust in people. 12+; popular with students earning service hours
Facilitate Forever Homes with LA Animal Services as an Adoption Counselor
LA Animal Services looking for friendly and outgoing individuals to assist visitors in the kennels. Volunteers help potential adopters spend quality time with the animals and answer questions about care and behavior. 16+ to volunteer independently; 12–15 with adult sponsor
Amplify Animal Voices with LA Animal Services through Creative Media
LA Animal Services seeking photographers, videographers, and social media managers to help market their animals. This role is crucial for pets who have been in the shelter for a long time and need extra help finding a home.
Welcome the Community with LA Animal Services as a Shelter Greeter
LA Animal Services looking for volunteers with excellent communication skills to staff the lobby and assist the public. Greeters help manage the flow of visitors and provide a friendly face for those looking to adopt or find a lost pet. 12+
Build Community Impact with LA Animal Services through Group Service Projects
LA Animal Services facilitates large-scale projects for corporate and community groups. Interested organizations should email to coordinate a project that aligns with their size and the care center's current needs. Age requirements vary by project.
Earn School Credit with LA Animal Services through Student Volunteering
LA Animal Services provides a structured pathway for students to earn required community service hours while gaining hands-on experience in animal advocacy. Students must go through the standard volunteer orientation and training process, after which they can assist with various roles such as animal comforting, reading, and administrative support. Their volunteer liaisons provide formal sign-offs on service hours once the student has completed a minimum of thirty hours of service. This program encourages young people to develop a lifelong commitment to civic engagement and compassionate animal care. 12+; 12–15 with adult sponsor
Reunite Lost Pets with LA Animal Services through the Share Squad
LA Animal Services is looking for digital advocates to help double the reach of their adoptable pet listings and lost-and-found alerts. Volunteers follow, like, and share content from the official and volunteer-run social media feeds to help animals find their way home.
Start Your Service with LA Animal Services at the Volunteer Orientation Tour
LA Animal Services offers a gateway for new supporters to join their mission through a mandatory introductory tour and orientation at their service centers. During this session, prospective volunteers learn about the department's policies, basic animal behavior, and the many ways they can make a difference in the lives of the residents. They provide a comprehensive overview of the volunteer program, ensuring that everyone feels prepared and confident before they begin their first shift. This tour is the first step toward a fulfilling journey of service and is required for all individuals and sponsors looking to volunteer. Participants must present a photo ID and have an application on file. The orientation covers safety protocols and animal handling basics to prepare volunteers for a commitment of at least six hours per month. 12+; 12–15 must attend with their adult sponsor.
Empower Second Chances with Paws for Life K9 Rescue at the Innovation Center
Paws for Life K9 Rescue invite community members to support their groundbreaking mission of pairing shelter dogs with incarcerated trainers for intensive rehabilitation. At their People and Pet Innovation Center, volunteers play a vital role in socializing "graduated" dogs who have completed their prison training and are ready for family life. They offer various roles, from hands-on dog walking and enrichment to assisting with adoption events where these specialized dogs meet their forever families. By giving their time, volunteers help prove that every dog—and every person—deserves a second chance at a meaningful life. Volunteers must complete a "Fear Free" online course and attend an in-person orientation and dog handling class. This is a high-impact role for those interested in the intersection of animal welfare and social rehabilitation.
Lead Animal Advocacy with the Paws for Life K9 Junior Advisory Council
Paws for Life K9 Rescue: Junior Advisory Council (JAC) invites middle and high school students in the Los Angeles area to join a youth-led movement dedicated to animal advocacy and education. Members of the Junior Advisory Council (JAC) work to spread awareness about the importance of "rescuing versus buying" dogs, educate their peers on spaying and neutering, and lead fundraising initiatives to support the organization's lifesaving programs. They also offer guidance and resources for students who wish to jumpstart Paws for Life K9 clubs at their own schools, fostering a new generation of compassionate leaders who are committed to giving shelter dogs a second chance at life. JAC members meet virtually and in-person to coordinate school clubs and community outreach. Interested students are encouraged to follow their Instagram @pawsforlifejac for the latest updates on how to join.
Showcase Shelter Pets with SEAACA at Off-Site Adoption Events
SEAACA extends its reach into the community by coordinating off-site adoption fairs at local parks, pet stores, and community centers. Volunteers in this role assist with the physical setup of the event space and act as ambassadors for the animals, showcasing adoptable pets to potential families. They focus heavily on humane education, providing information on responsible pet ownership and helping the public understand the long-term commitment of bringing a new animal home. By bringing the care center’s residents to where the people are, these volunteers play a crucial role in increasing adoption rates and building a more compassionate community. Various Locations (Refer to SEAACA event calendar) Must be 18+
Featured Projects
Assist Animal Nonprofits with Big Sunday at AW@10 (Accessible Wednesday at 10am)
Big Sunday,
passion@bigsunday.org,
(323)549-9944
Big Sunday invites volunteers of all abilities to join our weekly Accessible Wednesday morning program, AW@10, to support local animal rescue efforts. During this session, participants will work together to assemble "Kitty Kits" for feline residents in need at local nonprofit organizations. These activities are specifically designed to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that everyone—including volunteers with developmental challenges—can participate in the joy of giving back. It is a wonderful opportunity to build community while providing essential supplies to help rescued cats thrive. Metered street parking is available, and a public parking garage is directly across from our building. Participants are encouraged to arrive ready to work as part of a helpful and diverse community. All ages are welcome; volunteers under 12 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Assist Animal Nonprofits with Big Sunday at AW@10 (Accessible Wednesday at 10am)
Big Sunday,
passion@bigsunday.org,
(323)549-9944
Big Sunday invites volunteers of all abilities to join our weekly Accessible Wednesday morning program, AW@10, to support local animal rescue efforts. Volunteers will gather at the Big Sunday headquarters to assemble "Doggie Bags" filled with helpful items for local animal-related nonprofits. This program emphasizes that absolutely everyone has something to give, providing a structured yet fun environment where guests of honor with developmental challenges and the general public can volunteer side-by-side. By preparing these supplies, the community helps ensure that local animal shelters and advocacy groups have the resources they need to care for their resident dogs. Metered street parking is available, and a public parking garage is directly across from our building. Participants are encouraged to arrive ready to work as part of a helpful and diverse community. All ages are welcome; volunteers under 12 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Support Animal Nonprofits with Big Sunday at TM@10 (Thursday Morning at 10am)
Big Sunday,
nicolo@bigsunday.org,
(323)549-9944
TM@10 (Thursday Morning @ 10) is not only one of our favorite programs, but it’s one of our most popular, too! We meet every Thursday morning, from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM. And we host hands-on projects to help local nonprofits. This week, participants will work together to assemble handmade dog toys for animals residing in local shelters. This event offers a social, lighthearted environment where people can meet new neighbors, enjoy some laughs, and create tangible items that improve the quality of life for rescued dogs. It is a perfect way to support animal welfare while being part of a helpful, diverse community. Metered street parking is available, and a public parking garage is directly across from our building. Participants are encouraged to arrive ready to work as part of a helpful and diverse community. All ages are welcome; volunteers under 12 must be accompanied by a guardian. No fee is required to participate, but slots are limited.
Support Animal Nonprofits with Big Sunday at TM@10 (Thursday Morning at 10am)
Big Sunday,
nicolo@bigsunday.org,
(323)549-9944
TM@10 (Thursday Morning @ 10) is not only one of our favorite programs, but it’s one of our most popular, too! We meet every Thursday morning, from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM. And we host hands-on projects to help local nonprofits. This week, volunteers will gather to put together "Dog Care Kits" filled with supplies that support local animal-related nonprofits. This event offers a social, lighthearted environment where people can meet new neighbors, enjoy some laughs, and create tangible items that improve the quality of life for rescued dogs. It is a perfect way to support animal welfare while being part of a helpful, diverse community. Metered street parking is available, and a public parking garage is directly across from our building. Participants are encouraged to arrive ready to work as part of a helpful and diverse community. All ages are welcome; volunteers under 12 must be accompanied by a guardian. No fee is required to participate, but slots are limited.
Support Animal Nonprofits with Big Sunday at TM@10 (Thursday Morning at 10am)
Big Sunday,
nicolo@bigsunday.org,
(323)549-9944
TM@10 (Thursday Morning @ 10) is not only one of our favorite programs, but it’s one of our most popular, too! We meet every Thursday morning, from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM. And we host hands-on projects to help local nonprofits. This week, volunteers are invited to assemble "Cat Care Kits," which are distributed to nonprofits specializing in cat rescue, fostering, and adoption. This event offers a social, lighthearted environment where people can meet new neighbors, enjoy some laughs, and create tangible items that improve the quality of life for rescued cats. It is a perfect way to support animal welfare while being part of a helpful, diverse community. Metered street parking is available, and a public parking garage is directly across from our building. Participants are encouraged to arrive ready to work as part of a helpful and diverse community. All ages are welcome; volunteers under 12 must be accompanied by a guardian. No fee is required to participate, but slots are limited.