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Involved

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Join us today and be part of something special – we can't do it without you!

Become a Part of Our Mission

Volunteers

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our work, helping us provide compassionate care to animals in need. Whether you're assisting with daily tasks at the shelter, walking dogs, or helping at events, your time and effort directly impact the lives of the animals we care for. Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the community, build connections, and make a tangible difference in the lives of pets waiting for their forever homes.


Volunteers of any age are welcome!. Youth 16yrs and up may volunteer without a guardian. Youth volunteers and their guardians must both complete the application, orientation, and training process to volunteer at the shelter.

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Adult Volunteer Application (18+)

Youth Volunteer Application (<18)

Group Volunteer Application

Court-Ordered Community Service

Shelter Sidekick Volunteering


We take in all animals who are in urgent need of our help. We also want to accept help from anybody and everybody who is interested! Our Shelter Sidekick program allows anyone to drop-in and volunteer, without any training required!


This opportunity is perfect for families with small children, or anyone trying to meet a small volunteer hour requirement. As a Shelter Sidekick, you can expect to perform tasks such as:


  • Reading to Cats
  • Cleaning Windows
  • Taking Cat Photos for their Adoption Profile
  • Packaging Food for the Pet Pantry
  • And Many More!


Learn more at the link below:


Shelter Sidekick Guide
The logo for the heartland humane thrift shop.

Volunteering at the 

Thrift Shop

Love thrifting? Want to make a big impact on the homeless animals in your community?

Volunteer at the thrift shop and help earn 30% of Heartland’s annual budget!
Fill out an application and the Thrift Shop Manager will contact you to schedule an orientation and training.

Foster

The goal of the foster care program is to care for animals that are not currently adoptable until they become adoptable. This includes:


  • Kittens and puppies under 2 months of age
  • Kittens and puppies requiring socialization
  • Rabbits during quarantine period (10 days)
  • Small animals in need of socialization
  • Nursing cats and dogs with young
  • Cats or kittens that are ill or injured
  • Adult animals who need a break
  • Animals that are ill or injured
  • Pets in the Safe Housing Program


Our fosters also help care for animals when there is no space for them at our shelter. Learn more at the link below:

New Title

Going on a hike, beach day trip, or just walking around town? Do you miss your animal friends at home and need a dog-fix? Time to Fetch a Friend! Take a shelter dog out to enjoy the day with you to get some exercise, meet new people, and hopefully find their new home while you enjoy the benefits of animal companionship without the commitment ;)

Fetch a Friend Now!

Whiskers Cat Lounge Volunteering

Love cats? We'd love your help! The Whiskers Cat Lounge & Adoption Center, located within The Cat’s Meow Thrift Shop, is looking for caring volunteers to join our team. Help by greeting guests and managing check-ins at the front desk or providing hands-on morning cat care: feeding, cleaning, and giving our feline residents the care they deserve. No experience necessary, just a big heart and a passion for purrs. Come make a difference, one meow at a time!

Events

60 Years of Pawsome Calendar

September 1st - September 26th 2026

2026 is the year that Heartland celebrates 60 Years of Pawsome!

We've already had the contest, now it's time to purchase your calendar! Click the button below to purchase.

More Info