Volunteer

Our volunteers are indispensable. They come from all walks of life to donate thousands of hours of their time in nearly every PHS/SPCA department, extending the capacity for our paid staff to help animals and the people of San Mateo County. Some help 2-3 days per week, while others give 2-3 hours per week; all commitments are greatly appreciated. In return, we offer opportunities for meaningful participation. If you love animals and like working with people, consider volunteering in our award-winning program.

The first step to becoming a volunteer is to review our current open roles and to complete an application here: www.phs-spca.org/volapp. Once you have completed the application, you will be added to our contact list. We update that page regularly to reflect our current volunteer needs.

Once you become a volunteer, you’ll be asked to purchase a “Volunteer Pack” that includes a short-sleeve volunteer t-shirt, lanyard and combination RF access keycard and identification badge. The cost of the pack is $30 plus tax.

Positions

Please review our adult volunteer positions for more information.  You must be 18 years of age to volunteer with us and we require a commitment of 2-4 hours per week for one year.     Junior volunteers require a 2-hour commitment for 6 months.  Youth ages 16 and 17 years old can volunteer on their own in limited roles, while youth ages 13 to 15 years old must volunteer with a parent or guardian.  Please see junior volunteer positions for more information.   We are unable to accept volunteers under the age of 13. 

Volunteer Packs

PHS/SPCA asks new volunteers to purchase a “Volunteer Pack” for $30 including tax which includes a short-sleeve volunteer t-shirt, lanyard and combination access keycard/ID badge.

Volunteer with Us!

  1. Review our Volunteer Positions
  2. Fill out an Application
  3. Keep an eye out for recruitment emails
  4. Purchase a $30 Volunteer Pack
  5. Volunteer!

Note: Some positions require supplemental training, and not all are available at any given time.