It Takes a Village - Join Ours
Whether it’s walking dogs, helping at adoption events, transporting animals, or simply giving love and attention — our volunteers are the heartbeat of 4P4L.
You don’t need experience — just compassion, commitment, and a few hours of your time. From students to retirees, stay-at-home parents to weekend warriors, there’s a place for everyone here.
You make it possible for us to do what we do — and the animals feel every ounce of that care.
Ways to Help
- Animal Transport (Our Biggest Need!)
- Adoption Event Support
- Facility Animal Care (Walking, Feeding, Cleaning)
- Content Creation
- Fundraising + Outreach
- Admin Help
Got a Special Skill or Flexible Schedule?
We’re always on the lookout for passionate people with unique strengths — especially photographers, social media storytellers, or those with experience in animal care.
Have free time during the week? Our weekday needs are BIG when it comes to transporting to and from the vet. Perfect for retirees, stay-at-home parents, or anyone with a flexible schedule who wants to make a difference during the day.
Whether you’ve got a camera, extra time, or a big heart — we’d love to hear from you.
Becoming a Volunteer
We welcome volunteers ages 15–18 to work with our animals — as long as a completed application is on file and a parent or guardian is present during animal handling.
If you’re under 18 and interested in non-animal tasks (like washing dishes or organizing supplies), a guardian doesn’t need to be present.
To get started, all volunteers must:
- Submit a Volunteer Application
- Attend an in-person orientation at our facility in Sedalia
We host orientations 1–2 times per month, giving you a behind-the-scenes tour and everything you need to know about becoming part of the 4P4L volunteer family.
Once onboarded, you’ll get access to our simple scheduling software where you can sign up for shifts and track your hours with ease.
"The spirit and the way they treat their volunteers is head and shoulders above any other place we have worked with."
Tim + Robin
"I have never met a more determined, heart-driven, group of people."
I have volunteered in animal rescue for decades all over the country. When we landed in Colorado in 2019, we adopted our seventh dog from 4 Paws 4 Life. I began as a volunteer in 2023 and have never met a more determined, heart-driven, group of people. Every week new dogs and cats arrive, many pulled off of the euthanasia list from other states, to get a chance at living their best life. Faces just light up at the adoption events when families see the dogs waiting to be adopted. There are blue-shirted volunteers everywhere in motion caring for the dogs, puppies, working on application approvals, meet and greets and the ultimate reward in watching a dog or cat leave in the arms of a new family. My volunteer time with 4P4L allows me to fill up in a positive environment and our shared goal to help make a difference.
Rebecca
"As volunteers and fosters, we are 100% supported with all of the supplies, help and guidance needed."
I have volunteered for 4P4L for about ten years, fostering puppies and helping with their adoption events. Over the years, we have helped many puppies find their forever homes. The dedicated staff and focus on the health and safety of the animals is what keeps me coming back to support this organization.
Cheryl
"As volunteers and fosters, we are 100% supported with all of the supplies, help and guidance needed."
Deana
"Couldn't recommend enough."
I have had the opportunity to do some volunteer work with 4P4L and can attest at what a great organization it is. They rescue so many dogs and host multiple events a month to help them get adopted.
More recently I was lucky enough to adopt one of their dogs (Chaos, previously known as Ruffles). The adoption process was very easy and organized.
Kassandra
Volunteer FAQs
Got questions? We’re here to help.
What kinds of volunteer opportunities are available?
We have plenty! From walking dogs, to cleaning kennels, to helping at events, to helping with donations… there’s something for everyone! Currently, our biggest need is assistance transporting animals to and from the vet during the weekdays.
Can kids or teens volunteer?
Yes! Volunteers under 18 are welcome with a parent or guardian present. Some tasks may be age-restricted, but we’ll find a way for young helpers to get involved.
Do I need any experience to volunteer?
Nope. Just bring your love for animals, a good attitude, and we’ll guide you from there. Training is provided when needed.
How much time do I have to commit?
As much or as little as you’d like. Whether it’s one afternoon a month or a few hours a week, every minute helps!
What kind of help is most needed?
We always need hands-on help with animals, facility cleaning, laundry, and adoption events. Currently, our biggest need is assistance transporting animals to and from the vet during the weekdays.
How do I get started?
Fill out our volunteer form here, and we’ll be in touch to welcome you and get you started.
