Volunteer

Volunteering at CMHS 

We are currently not accepting new volunteers into our program.  Please check back here for updates on the status of the program.

Because CMHS is the only open-door shelter in Mid-Missouri, we depend on the time and commitment of our volunteers to help care for the 6,000 homeless or unwanted animals that come through our doors each year.  CMHS encourages the participation of volunteers who support the CMHS volunteer  mission: to create a fulfilling and mutually beneficial experience between volunteers and animal residents while also advocating for shelter animal adoption and successful pet ownership. 

 

Volunteer Login Center

If you need community service hours you must go through our front desk, our volunteer program is completely seperate than court ordered community service. Please stop in during regular business hours or call for more information : 573-443-7387 ext. 0  

Requirements:

  • At least 18 old; If under 18, volunteer must be accompanied by supervisor/guardian at all times.  Min. age is 8.
  • Have an interest in helping animals become successful pets
  • Have a mature and respectful attitude towards staff, the public, and animal residents at all times
  • Have a working email or other means of communication
  • Able to commit to a minimum of 3-4 hours a month for a consecutive 3 months
  • Support CMHS philosophies, policies and the CMHS mission

 *We cannot accommodate volunteers with criminal records that include felony drug offenses, any charges involved with theft, abuse, or cruelty to animals. 

 Getting Started: How to Volunteer

Step 1 – Inquire about volunteering by email, phone, or in person.  Please email full name, phone number, and email address. Subject line Volunteer Orientation to volunteer@cmhspets.org . 

Step 2 -  Attend orientation (dates will be given after inquiry) must confirm which date you can attend, orientations will have limited space. 

Step 3 – Sign up for a training session for Dog and Cat 100 

Step 4 – Commit to at least 3-4 hours a month 

Step 5 - Volunteer and make a difference in a pets life 

Please contact Danielle Burlis if you have any questions at: 

volunteer@cmhspets.org or (573)443-7387 ext. 211 

Volunteer Opportunities

  • Dog/Cat Socializer - Come socialize with the dogs and cats and give them the love and attention they both need and deserve while here at the shelter.  Help reduce stress and keep them company!
  • Dog Walking – Walking manners are an essential part of being a polite pet.  Come walk dogs on Bear Creek Trail.
  • Special Events – Assist CMHS staff at adoption events, community events and fundraisers.  Events are a great way to spread the CMHS mission and can be a fun alternative to on-site volunteering.
  • Donation Drives – Collecting funds and goods for the shelter and animals
  • Donation Pickups - Collect and pick up donations at various places
  • Office Assistance – Help with paperwork and misc. office work.
  • Photographer – Do you have photography skills?  If so, come help capture images of our animals to put online.
  • Foster parent/family – Providing a temporary home for an animal is the best way to help save lives!  If interested, please check out the information on the foster tab.  Fostering is full time volunteering!
  • Miscellaneous – What are your talents? What can you offer CMHS?  Please tell us, we are always looking for individulas with special talents who can help with various projects.  Let us know!

Group and Business Service Projects

Business, school and group opportunities at CMHS vary depending on the time of year and what is needed at the shelter.  Please realize there is a high demand for group volunteering and limited opportunities for such groups to participate in. 

  • Large groups are great for helping with special events, ground maintenance, and other special projects.  These projects also generally occur in the spring and fall when weather is most cooperative.
  • Large groups take planning.  We need to know at least 2 weeks in advance and we cannot guarantee we will have an on-site project for you, but we will see if our needs match your group’s interests.  Group size range from 5-15.
  • If you have a group that is interested in helping, please also consider fundraising within your own organization.  Holding events like donation drives, car washes, and office competitions are great ways to assist the animals if an on-site event is not viable.
  • If you have any questions or need help with hosting an event,  please feel free to contact us.