Hours: 10-20 hours/week (some weekends/evenings possible)

Reports to: Director of Marketing and Community Engagement

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Summary

The Volunteer Management Intern supports the DRHS Volunteer Program by assisting with the maintenance, development, organization, and coordination of volunteer activity at the Dubuque Regional Humane Society (DRHS). The Volunteer Intern will be responsible for performing administrative duties related to recruiting, training, and communicating with DRHS volunteers.. 

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Primary Responsibilities

• Maintain volunteer database and volunteer information. Ensure the accurate entry of volunteer information and hours served.

• Update and maintain the Volunteer Handbooks. 

• Prepare for and schedule volunteer trainings. Assist in training to volunteers to ensure successful completion of particular volunteer jobs including cleaning, dog handling, and cat handling.

• Research and develop new and creative ways to actively recruit volunteers to meet the needs of the DRHS.

• Develop and implement effective methods for retaining good volunteers.

• Work closely with department supervisors to identify organizational needs and develop job descriptions for skills-based volunteers. Evaluate volunteer abilities to effectively assign tasks and best support the DRHS.

• Market volunteer opportunities or organizational needs in collaboration with Marketing. Ensure the website has accurate information and resources for volunteer recruitment.

• Communicate regularly with volunteers. Know appropriate use of verbal, written, and e-mail communication, and select appropriate channels when needed..

• Work with departmental supervisors to recruit volunteers for special events as needed.

• Coordinate volunteers to support shelter staff during emergencies. (i.e. evacuations, hoarding/mass intake cases)

• Work with social, civic, and local organizations to develop partnerships, where appropriate, to develop and/or utilize volunteers.

• Support Director of Marketing and Community Engagement with the Community Service program.

• Maintain records by tracking and logging Community Service hours.

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Professional Behavior

• Represent the DRHS in a positive and professional manner to the public at all times.

• Serve as a friendly and compassionate face in public and private settings.

• Advance the mission of the DRHS through ethical practices.

• Promote and support an effective team environment, including adherence to Ethical Communication practices with staff, participants, volunteers, and community members.

• Maintain confidentiality of adopters and donors.

• Demonstrate respect, interest, compassion and caring for the animals, volunteers and community members.

• Know, and abide by, the DRHS Employee Handbook and Operating Policies and Procedures.

• Know, support and promote the Mission, Values, and Goals of the DRHS.

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Learning Outcomes

Intern will gain experience in:

• Volunteer management and shelter operations

• Nonprofit organizational practices

• Professional communication and teamwork in an animal welfare setting

 

Qualifications

• Interest in animal welfare and nonprofit work.

• Strong organizational and communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and the public.

• Detail-oriented, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks.

• Comfortable working hands-on with animals and performing physical tasks.

• Have a steadfast belief in the mission, policies, and procedures of the DRHS.

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Working Environment:

This position will encounter regular exposure to animal odors, diseases, possible contagious conditions, bites, scratches, animal waste, and high noise levels. The work environment may require the lifting of heavy equipment, bending, twisting and stooping and for the employee to stand and /or sit for extended periods of time.

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To apply, interested students should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their interest in the internship, relevant coursework, and career aspirations to hr@dbqhumane.org

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This position will remain posted until filled. Apply today!