Volunteers are the heart of everything we do…
Make a Difference - Volunteer with Survivors for Strays!
Survivors for Strays is a 100% volunteer-run organization, and we simply couldn’t save lives without the dedication of people like you. Have a little extra time? Even a few hours can make a huge impact in the life of a rescue dog or cat.
Your energy and compassion help us provide the care and support these animals need. Volunteers are essential to every part of our mission and play a key role in helping us reach our goals.
At the heart of everything we do is the passion of our volunteers. And yes, one of the perks is spending time with some adorable dogs and cats while making a real difference.
Your time sparks change, saves lives, and helps us continue our work.
Join us!
We CARE. With our WHOLE Hearts. We WANT to make a difference.
Interested in Volunteering?
We need you! We ask that you commit at least 6 months of service if accepted as a volunteer and be at least 21 years of age.
Here are some of the roles we need the most help with:
Animal Care, Jefferson Park (Chicago) - We need help caring for our on-site cats and kittens at our brand new location! Must be able to lift 40 lbs and be ok with scooping litter boxes and cleaning duties. And, of course, LOTS of fun socializing with the kitties!
Adoption Events - Be part of finding Forever Families! Just a few hours on a weekend afternoon can make a world of difference for a dog looking for a forever home. As a volunteer, you'll play a key role in introducing these lovable pups to potential adopters and sharing their stories.
Event Planning & Fundraising - Want to make a big impact for dogs and cats in need - without opening your wallet? Join our Events Committee and put your enthusiasm, creativity, and energy to work!
Animal Transport - transport our Adorable Adoptables to and from a variety of places across Chicago and the suburbs (foster homes, veterinarians, boarding partners, adoption events, our Jefferson Park Care Center, CACC, etc.). Weekday/daytime hours are greatly needed. Requires a valid driver’s license, vehicle, and auto insurance (copies provided to Survivors to Strays). Your mileage is tax deductible.
Adoption & Foster Coordinators - We are looking for a few dedicated individuals to correspond with our foster families, the lifeblood of our organization. You’ll be making calls and emails to check in on animals at least every two weeks, and responding to requests for assistance. Basic medical knowledge and animal care is a plus. This role is excellent for anyone looking to learn customer service skills, animal care skills, or for someone wishing to get experience in non-profits and animal welfare. Minimum six-month commitment for this role. Requires access to email and phone. You can perform this role from home.
Marketing & Graphics Team - Do you have some graphic design talents? We need you to help us create designs for our fundraisers, email campaigns, and more on an as-needed basis. You can perform this role from home.
Social Media Manager - Do you LOVE posting cute pics of animals? Then do it to save lives! We need a dedicated individuals to join our Team to post on our Instagram and Facebook pages, respond to comments, and help grow our audience. Knowledge of social media and hashtags is helpful. We ask that you post at least four times a week, although this can vary, and you’re welcome to do more!
Photography / Videography - More information coming soon…
Grant Writing - More information coming soon…
Website Management - More information coming soon…