Youth Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers working directly with animals are required to be over the age of 18, but there are still a variety of ways for young people to get involved at HHS and make a difference in the lives of our homeless pets. Read more about our youth volunteer opportunities below and fill out the interest form to get started.
If you are interested in Humane Education programs for youth, please visit our Humane Education page.
Pawsitive Impact - Classes begin 9/24/25
Pawsitive Impact is a youth volunteer session that meets1.5-hour weekly session, where students in grades 6th-8th (and high school freshmen up to age 15) will explore the meaning and practice of volunteering. They will put their knowledge into action by participating in activities needed at the shelter each week, across various departments. Pawsitive Impact is designed to instill the values of service, compassion, and leadership while offering students a chance to make a real difference at Hinsdale Humane Society (HHS). This program not only builds character but also empowers students to create positive change in their communities. Additionally, it serves as a preparatory step for our Teenternship Program (for ages 15+), where young adults are entrusted with organizational tasks around the shelter.
Class Day & Time:
- Wednesdays 4:30–6 pm
Ages:
- 6th through 8th grades (9th grade up to 15 years of age)
Price:
- $25
Sign up Information Here:
It is important to note:
- These are NOT drop-in classes: all attendees MUST sign up at the links provided after sign up.
- We have a new registration system which makes it easier for parents and guardians to sign up and register
- After signing up for Pawsitive Impact and paying the fee, each class will be available for sign up 2 weeks in advance, in the same sign up system as you registered. (you will also receive a welcome letter)
Teenternships (15 - 17)
Looking for a hands-on way to make a difference in the lives of shelter animals? Our Teenternship Program gives teens the chance to actively support the daily care of animals at our shelter while working closely with our experienced staff.
Teenterns assist with a variety of important tasks, including opening and closing procedures, cleaning kennels, doing laundry and dishes, feeding and watering the animals, and helping prepare the shelter for the next day. It’s a great opportunity to gain real-world experience, build responsibility, and make a direct impact.
Shifts are available seven days a week, with flexible timing based on volunteer sign-ups.
How to Apply:
1. Complete the application — Click Here--> Teenternship Application.
2. Email our Volunteer Manager — at [email protected] with the subject line: “Teen Application Submitted”
3. Wait for next steps — once we receive your email, we’ll follow up with more information about upcoming training sessions and how to get started.
Please Note:
Due to high interest, training sessions are scheduled as needed and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. We’re unable to respond to individual inquiries about future training dates.
Junior Board
Junior Board is a group of dedicated high school aged students that plans events and fundraisers for Hinsdale Humane Society, and promotes our adoptable animals and programming!
In order to be eligible, applicants must have completed 12 hours of volunteer service at HHS in any capacity (youth volunteer days, Compassionate Kids Corps, Animal Advocates Club, Events, Teenternships, etc.)
The Junior Board will meet once a month in person and once a month virtually. Active members must attend two-thirds of all the meetings as well as continue volunteering at HHS for at least two hours per month in any capacity. Active members must also participate in at least five Junior Board events throughout the year. The cost for this volunteer program is $20 per school year and can be paid at your first Board meeting.
For questions and application information please email the Humane Education Manager at [email protected].
