Volunteering

Abundant Rewards

One of the greatest rewards of working with Special Spaniels Therapy Dogs is seeing the smiles on the faces of the children and adults hugging your animal. At almost every visit, you are guaranteed to hear, "Thank you so much for coming!" "When will you be back?" "Can I give your dog one more hug before you go?"

Part of a Winning Team

• Special Spaniels provides opportunities to socialize with other volunteers by sponsoring picnics and volunteer appreciation events.

• Special Spaniels keeps volunteers informed through the "Barking Good Time" newsletter, as well as via phone and E-mail. Volunteers feel like part of a team.

• By visiting as a group at Special Spaniels facilities, volunteers learn from each other and can share their visiting experiences.

• Special Spaniels provides volunteers opportunities to assist with other aspects of the organization, including helping with public education programs, new volunteer training and screening, and mentoring.

Besides visiting, how else can I volunteer with Special Spaniels?

While some volunteers prefer to just visit with their partners, many others also help with the numerous responsibilities of the organization. Responsibilities include:

• Coordinating Special Spaniels training sessions and team screenings.

• Corresponding with potential volunteers, facilities, etc.

• Coordinating with Special Spaniels facilities, including evaluating potential new facilities.

• Volunteer services, including placing new volunteers and helping current volunteers.

• Organizing social events, such as the Special Spaniels awards night, the Special Spaniels picnic, and the Special Spaniels holiday party.

• Handling Special Spaniels public relations, including press releases, organizing Special Spaniels demonstrations, etc.

• Handling back-office functions (mailings, newsletter, paperwork)

If you still have questions, contact us via email here.