Animal Welfare Professionals

Good Afternoon!

I work for the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, and one thing I am starting to see more of is large groups. About 1-2 times a week we are having large groups come in to help with the shelter. I typically start their time here with a tour of our facility and everything we have to offer for our volunteers as well as to the public. Many of the groups, after their time volunteering, have individuals within the group who look to sign on as a regular volunteer. We have our process with onboarding new volunteers, however we have a long waitlist (working on shortening it) but for others who bring in large groups who have individuals who are looking to continue volunteering, what are your processes? 

Thanks!

#PeopleManagement(includingVolunteerIntegration)

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Marisa Santiago
Volunteer Coordinator
Humane Society of Greater Dayton
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Maria, 

I love this "problem" you're having. So amazing to see so many people wanting to help.

Is the issue solely onboarding large numbers of groups? Or do you not have enough opportunities for them all? 

If the issue is the later, do you partner with other local organizations? You could identify likeminded organizations who also would be a future foster/adoption base and share Volunteers. It could be a youth group, a mentorship organization even another local rescue/shelter or Veterinary clinic. Events are also an amazing place to have volunteers share their skillsets as well. 

Good Luck!

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Jennifer Evans
CARE
Baltimore MD
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