Volunteer With Us
At PAWS we believe that compassion in action changes lives—both for local animals in
need and the people who help them. Founded in 1982 by visionary humanitarian and activist Esther Nowell, PAWS has operated as an all-volunteer, non-profit organization for over four decades. Every adoption success, rescue mission, and educational effort is powered
entirely by people like you.
Whether you have two hours a month or ten hours a week, every contribution makes a direct impact. We welcome volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. No matter your skill set or schedule, there is a meaningful place for you in our PAWS family.
Ways You Can Help
Lost, Found & Rescue: help with lost and found activities or hands-on field rescues to bring vulnerable
cats to safety.
Adoption & Matchmaking: Assist with processing applications, coordinating meet-and-greets, and pairing rescued cats with loving forever homes.
Shelter Office & Food Pantry Support: Keep our central operations running smoothly by staffing the office, organizing inventory, and helping distribute pet food to community members in need.
Professional & Operational Roles: Lend your specialized skills behind the scenes in finance, bookkeeping,
IT, marketing, fundraising, administrative or event planning to keep our mission growing strong.
Community Education & Outreach: Spread awareness about animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and humane treatment by manning our Humane Response Line, or at local events and public education initiatives.
Fostering: Our cats all live in foster homes, not at our office. If you are interested in direct cat care, consider being a foster parent.
Why Volunteer with Us?
Total Flexibility: Give as much time as you want or can afford. Every bit helps.
Join a Special Community: Connect with local people who share a passion for animal welfare. Many who’ve volunteered with PAWS for decades.
Real Impact: Feel a sense of purpose. See the direct results of your care and dedication in every life saved!
Ready to make a difference? Fill out our volunteer application form and tell us how you think you could help. If you are interested in fostering cats click her to learn more.
Key Volunteer Open Roles
Lost & Found Volunteer Wanted
Trapping experience preferred.
Knowledge of cat behavior.Social media experience.
Adoption Coordinator Volunteer Wanted
Works with the adoption team that accesses applications
from potential adopters. The Adoption Coordinator is responsible for following up with the adoption applicants.