How to Select a Rescue to Volunteer With

Giving back is one of the things that has been shown, time and again, to help the giver in life as much as it helps the causes that desperately need the support. One great way to give back is to volunteer with a cause you are passionate about. For many people, that is animal welfare. Volunteering at an animal rescue can do a world of good. If you are thinking of one day pursuing a career in animal welfare, volunteering at an animal rescue is also a great gateway into that world and pursuing your passion. Here you'll find how to have a great experience in volunteering for an animal rescue in your community.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Two key things to start with, in looking for a rescue, is location and quality. You want to pick a rescue that is near you, as well as one that is truly committed to saving animals. If you know people who are passionate about animal welfare in your community, start with asking them their thoughts and opinions. You can use the phonebook, online or printed, to search for the sort of rescue you want to take on. While some rescues do not have pages on the Internet, most do, as it is a fairly cheap and effective way of getting the word out and raising money.

2. Make sure the charity is a true rescue. Your state's attorney general, coupled with the state's charities bureau, police charities and can let you know all the good and bad about an organization. To find your state's regulator, simply go to the Nasconet website (see Resources). Furthermore, the Internal Revenue Service also has a list of all organizations registered as charities. When you know who you are giving your time and money to, there is no room for worry. You can give your all to what is important, making a difference for your rescue of choice and saving the lives of animals in need.

3. Even though you thoroughly checked out the organization, you never want to approach a rescue as though you are suspicious and unfriendly However, it is always a good idea to visit the organization first. Explore what their procedures and philosophies are, and let them know what you're all about. It's best to not sign up to volunteer until you get to know the charity a bit more and you'll see how well they seem to be accomplishing their goals and promises as a non-profit.

4. Decide which rescue appealed most to your heart and mind. You want to feel good about what you are giving to the organization. Volunteering is a tithe of time and for most, the decision is clear early on. if you find more than one in your area, nobody says you can't volunteer at more than one place. Start with one organization, however. Tell them what hours and times you have available to work. It's best to arrange volunteering into your schedule at your convenience. That way, you'll always be available, and you won't be deterred from going from other frequent commitments.

5. Volunteer. Call the coordinator for your newly found rescue, and let them know your availability. It's best to give times and days when you know you'll be free every week. Getting in a routine, at a time when other commitments won't interfere, is the best way to insure that you'll have a great time and a consistent commitment to the cause. Remember to have fun and enjoy the experience of making a difference in animals' lives. Once you have had contact with an animal who depends on you for its rescue, you are going to be a volunteer for life.

Tips & Warnings

• When you donate money to a non-profit organization, it is usually tax-deductable so save those receipts.
• Be completely honest with the rescue, letting them know what your strong and weak points are up front.
• Nothing inspires charity like sharing. Consider blogging your rescue adventures so others can see what the experience is like, as well as perhaps be motivated to make a difference themselves.
• Once you are volunteering regularly, think outside the box. Many go on to do such things as run marathons as way to support, raise money, as as well raise awareness for their group.
• Don't commit to what you can't handle. If you promise to be there at a rescue at a certain time and place, be there. Otherwise, it could cause damage to their organization. Remember, you now represent them when you take on a volunteer position.
• If you don't have time, donate money. Even as little as five dollars can help an organization a great deal.
• Volunteer in moderation. Don't overwhelm yourself, nor do too little that you forget about the important work you want to do.

Resources

• Nasconet