Thank you for thinking of Wayside Waifs as the place to donate your time. The success of our Volunteer Program is not only achieved through time given by our remarkable volunteers, but by the selfless acts they contribute to make life better for homeless companion animals.
We currently have a need for Foster Care Families. Commitments vary – from puppies and kittens to adult animals who need a break from shelter life. Learn more here.
If you are inquiring about court ordered community service, please see our FAQ section and click here.
How to get started
You will find getting involved at Wayside Waifs to be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life!
The first step toward becoming a volunteer is to sign up for a new volunteer information session. Click here to sign up.
At our information sessions you’ll get a chance to learn more about the programs and services of Wayside Waifs, plus what you can expect as a volunteer.
After some Q&A, you can decide if volunteering at Wayside Waifs is the right fit for you. A tour of the shelter is offered as well.
If you are a corporate group interested in corporate volunteer opportunities click here.
Qualifications
- Volunteers need to be at least 16 years old, or between the ages of 13-15 with a parent
- All volunteers should be able to safely and independently perform all role requirements in training
- A mature, respectful attitude is required.
- All volunteers should be comfortable and competent to make quick decisions in stressful situations.
- An active email address is required
- Volunteers must sign up for a minimum of 3 months of weekly shifts.
Volunteer Benefits
Although puppy tail wags and kitten kisses are a given, there are many more rewards to volunteering.
- 25% off pet adoption (must have volunteered at least 10 hours in the previous 4 months to qualify for this benefit).
- 20% off cremations, urns, and merchandise
- 20% discount at Whiskers and Wags retail boutique
- 20% discount on Public training classes (seminars not included)
- 20% off fees for annual and 6-month membership for the Bark Park
- Annual appreciation event
- Access to Wayside’s private Facebook groups
If you’re looking for a shorter donation of time, a group project, or if you have youth under 13 who are interested in giving back, take a look at the additional opportunities that support our Mission and the animals in our care. Learn more about our Group Service Projects, Kids in Action programming, donation drives, and more.
For more information about helping Wayside, please send us an email or contact us at 816-986-4431.
Wayside Waifs
3901 Martha Truman Road
Kansas City, MO 64137
816-761-8151
Adoption Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday - Friday: 11am - 7pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10am - 5pm
Our Programs and Services
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You’ll receive our newsletter, “The Fire Hydrant,” special features on our Waifs of the Week, info on events, and more.