We offer a weekly program for teen volunteers ages 12–15 that allows them to earn 10 hours for school while learning about our shelter, working with our animals and assisting with our various Humane Education programs. Volunteers in our teen program do not need to have a parent or guardian volunteer with them.
Teens age 16 and older can also volunteer through our standard Short-Term and Long-Term volunteer programs or through our Camp Counselor Programs below.
Open to students ages 12 through 15
Program fee to cover supplies
5–7 PM
Weekly meetings during the school year
No parent or guardian sign-up needed
Hands-on animal care as part of each week’s lesson.
Help keep shelter spaces clean and comfortable for the animals.
Create enrichment activities that keep shelter animals active and engaged.
Take part in outreach that connects the shelter with the community.
Teens who will be at least 16 years old by 05/01/26 and are high school sophomores or older can apply to be a Summer Critter Camp Counselor.
Teens who will have completed 9th grade and are 14–15 years old during the summer can apply to be Junior Camp Counselors.
High School and College Students can earn up to 40 volunteer hours per week, plus bonus hours.
Email programs@hstb.org with any questions about the Camp Counselor Program.
Children under the age of 16 can volunteer accompanied by an HSTB trained volunteer parent/guardian who is over the age of 18 and have signed up for a shift in the long-term program.
We invite families with children to visit the shelter, and with the adoptable animals, during regular business hours. The Shelter is open seven days a week, from 10a–5p. A volunteer shift is not required to socialize with the adoptables.
Looking to get your kid involved in other ways? Check out Humane Education for all the fun opportunities!
My son enjoyed this experience so much he is now looking towards becoming a veterinarian.
— Dale M.
More Humane Education Programs
Pets & Tots
For little learners and their grown-ups.
Paws For Literacy
Build confidence through stories & shelter pets.
Pet Partner Club
For animal lovers ready to build leadership skills.
School Field Trips
Engage students through a hands-on experience.