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VOLUNTEER

Animal rescue organizations rely heavily on volunteers to carry out all the functions of running a rescue.  We get thousands of adoption applications every year and we are always in need of people to help process those applications.  In addition to adoption applications, we host various adoption events and fundraisers throughout the year. 

 

There are many ways to volunteer and support APR! We will provide any training and support needed. 

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Apply to be volunteer as a:​

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  • Fundraiser Volunteer

    • Develop and execute small fundraising events and campaigns to increase donations.​

    • Collaborate with the team to create strategies for engaging potential donors.

  • Special Events Support

    • Assist with event setup, including arranging tables, marketing materials, signage, and support cleanup and breakdown after the event.​

    • Handle dogs appropriately during events, ensuring the safety of the dog, other volunteers, and the community (if trained and authorized).

  • Social Media Support

    • Assisting with the creation of the rescue’s monthly general newsletter​

    • Creating graphics (web + print) and taking/facilitating photographs for social media posts and campaigns

  • Grant Writer

    • The ability to research different grant opportunities from both government and non-government agencies​

    • The ability to draft various grant proposals as well as supporting documents based on the funding requirements for APR

  • Application Processor

    • Reviews adoption applications and performs vet calls, reference checks and possible home visits

  • Junior Volunteer

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VOLUNTEER TESTIMONIALS

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Mark

"I've been a volunteer with Awesome Paws Rescue for six years and it has been extremely rewarding. I started out fostering dogs and ended up foster failing on my eighth foster and couldn't be happier. It's especially rewarding seeing dogs going to good homes. Although it's initially difficult to see them go, it makes you feel good to see a dog saved and it provides Awesome Paws with the opportunity to save even more dogs.

After fostering, I decided to volunteer as an Application Specialist. As I spend my winters down south, it wouldn't be practical to foster, however with a laptop and a phone you can review and process adopt applications from anywhere. I was also curious as to how Awesome Paws was able to find some of the best adopters and great individuals in WNY looking to adopt. Our Application process is thorough and although we want to place as many dogs as we can, we also want to ensure they are going to good loving homes. My responsibilities include calling references and having conversations about the potential adopter. If they currently have pets or have had pets within the past two years, we also call the veterinarian's office to ensure those pets have been spayed or neutered and up to date on their vaccines. The vet's office will also share any other information that can be valuable in determining whether a potential adopter is suitable to adopt.

During the Application process I'm able to speak to many people that are passionate about dogs whether it be their own or the applicants. I also get to see the journey from the moment of application to the point of adoption if all goes well with the application and there is a suitable match between adopter and dog. The best part of my role is that I can do it from wherever I am and on my own schedule. It's extremely fulfilling and I couldn't have picked a better rescue to be associated with. So if you would like to give back and volunteer and perhaps don't have the time or room to foster, please consider joining us as an Application Specialist and help us to save even more dogs!"

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Danielle

"I have been volunteering with Awesome Paws for almost three years, reviewing adoption applications and assisting with events.

 

I’m not currently in a position to foster, but am so glad I can help bring dogs and their families together in other ways. Application review helps ensure that qualified applicants get through the process as quickly and efficiently as possible.

 

Events help our pups gain exposure and gain confidence. I am happy to be able to assist in both of these endeavors.

 

APR, its leadership, and supporters do great work for dogs of all shapes, sizes, and ages. They help families find their missing pieces.

 

I am so grateful to be a part of that magic and look forward to continuing the mission."

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APR Volunteer

"I first became involved with Awesome Paws Rescue in Nov 2018. That’s when we adopted our Bella girl from them. I was just so impressed at how easy of a process and how devoted everyone was, that I decided to volunteer with this group of committed dog people.

 

Fast forward to 2025… I proudly wear a bunch of hats as a behind the scenes administrator of sorts.


Most rewarding has been that we have rescued over 2300 dogs. We take in dogs from shelters in the Southern states, our local shelters, strays and surrenders. All kinds of amazing dogs have been fostered by APR, from: puppies, litters, pregnant mamas, adults, seniors, dogs in need of medical attention to those who have been left behind.


Volunteering with APR continues to be an ongoing passion for our group. It’s so rewarding to see the applicants’ progress play out, from application to their adoption picture.

 

I’m so thankful to be a small part of this group of dog loving people, advocating for those without a voice. Awesome Paws will continue to rescue on to find forever homes for dogs and ensure they have their best lives!"

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