Volunteer at Sisu Refuge
Be part of real change... right where you live!
We believe everyone has unique skills, and when you share your ideas and talents for the betterment of your community, you create real, lasting impact.
We all want to change the world - but real change starts close to home. It begins around the dinner table with friends, in small towns, and in backyards. You can never underestimate what a small group of focused, dedicated people with a shared goal can accomplish.
Volunteering is one of the most powerful ways to live in alignment with your values - and we would love for you to shine your light here at Sisu Refuge.
Who We’re Looking For
We are seeking consistent, dependable volunteers who understand that sanctuary work relies on routine, trust, and commitment.
Our animals come from backgrounds of neglect, trauma, and instability. Familiar faces and predictable care are essential to their healing - which is why commitment matters so deeply here.
This is a hands-on, physically demanding, outdoor volunteer role best suited for individuals who are dependable, observant, and committed to showing up consistently for animals who rely on routine and familiarity.
Because proper training and animal safety require time and continuity, we require a minimum 3-month commitment with at least two shifts per week before advanced training is provided.
Volunteer Commitment
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Minimum commitment: 6 months
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Availability: At least 2 shifts per week
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Volunteer days: Thursday, Saturday, or Sunday
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Shifts: Typically 4-6 hours
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Minimum age:
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Adults 18+
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Children ages 10+ may volunteer alongside a legal guardian
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Because training is time-intensive and animal safety is critical, we ask volunteers to commit for the full duration.
What Volunteers Help With
Volunteer tasks vary by season, weather, and animal needs, and may include:
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Feeding, watering, and daily animal care
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Cleaning barns, shelters, and animal living spaces
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Food prep and enrichment preparation
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Socializing with animals and supporting behavioral enrichment
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Garden care, painting, fencing, and light building projects
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Assisting with sanctuary upkeep and organization
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Supporting events, tours, and occasional rescue intakes
No two days are exactly the same — flexibility is part of sanctuary life.
Physical & Environmental Requirements
Sanctuary work is hands-on, physical, and outdoors.
Volunteers must be able to:
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Work outside in all weather conditions (rain or shine)
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Lift and carry 50 lbs (including hay bales and 5-gallon water buckets)
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Perform tasks involving bending, pushing, pulling, lifting, and standing for extended periods
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Wear appropriate attire and closed-toe shoes or boots (work can get muddy)
Training & Expectations
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All volunteers must submit an application and attend required training sessions
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Volunteers must complete and sign a waiver prior to their first shift
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Each adult must complete their own waiver
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Minors must have a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian
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Upon completing training, volunteers are expected to work independently and responsibly
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Volunteers must arrive on time for scheduled shifts and remove themselves from the schedule if unable to attend
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In the event of a last-minute emergency, we ask that volunteers notify us by phone or text
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Important Notes
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No companion animals (including dogs) are permitted on sanctuary grounds for safety and stress-reduction reasons
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Reliable transportation is required
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Prior animal experience is helpful but not required — we will train the right people
Community Service & Group Volunteering
Individuals needing to complete Community Service Hours, or those interested in organizing a larger work group, must contact us in advance.
📧 sisurefuge@gmail.com
Please note: Community Service Hours require prior approval from our Executive Director before beginning.
Training & Growth Opportunities
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Initial orientation is required
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Progressive training based on commitment, consistency, and demonstrated readiness
Volunteers who complete their commitment and demonstrate strong skills may be eligible for:
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Advanced animal care training
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Increased responsibility
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Consideration for future paid or internship roles (when available)
Why Commitment Matters
Our animals come from backgrounds of neglect, trauma, and instability. Consistency and routine are critical to their healing.
We invest significant time in training volunteers, and this commitment ensures that effort directly benefits the animals who depend on us every day.