You can still make a difference and not be a foster home!

Many animal lovers want to help rescue groups but can not take in animals for various reasons. Rescue groups often look beyond fostering to gain experienced volunteers for the many tasks to get the job done.

 Have you had any experience writing grant letters?

Many rescue organizations would love to have you! One of the biggest set backs to the growth and success of a rescue organization is money. Many times there are grants just out of reach for a group because they may not have an experienced grant writer on their team and don’t apply. By volunteering to find and write letters to procure grants, you are making a big difference in the type of services the group can offer and extend the help needed further.

 Do you have time and love to talk on the phone?

 This is a great skill for a rescue organization to benefit from. There are many times it is necessary to rally volunteers for an event, check in with foster homes taking pets to an event, touch base with potential donors and so many other reasons that phone contact is the fastest way to expedite action. Communication is a key element to keeping things running smoothly and keeping the group connected. By volunteering to make phone calls, you free up time that may need to be used in other areas. This in turn can make an event even more successful.

 Do you have a vehicle and can donate some time?

 You could be the key to getting an animal spayed/neutered quicker; to an adoption event for the chance at a forever home or picking up much needed donations. There are many times that being in 2 places at one time would come in handy or a last minute change leaves someone without transportation. You could be the back up transportation to make a difference.

 Do you own a business but are too busy to take on a foster animal?

 Donate services or items that may be of need. The use of a copy machine, fax or other equipment can save rescue organizations money that can be spent on spaying and neutering or other regular costs of care. Did someone order the wrong supplies for your office but they can’t be returned? Many times office supplies of any kind are a welcome donation. Do you have an employee bulletin board? Let a rescue group put up flyers of events and wish lists. There are endless ways any business could contribute and make a difference in an animal’s life.

 Are you a crafting diva and love furry friends but are allergic?

 Offer to make items to sell. Create posters and flyers. Donate part of your proceeds of a craft sale. Bring brochures or other handouts to place on your display table at crafting events.

 These are just some of the many ways people can be a part of or help out a rescue group without taking on new pets. More examples of what you can do to help out are below.

 *Donate items to be sold at a garage sale or auction

 *Donate unopened food or supplies that your pet doesn’t use or like any longer

 *Find out if any medications are needed and help pay for them. Some vets offer a discount if they know        you are willing to pay for a medication and donate it to a rescue group.

 *Donate used towels, blankets and dishes

 *Sponsor a spay or neuter

 *Contact a group to find out other ways you can contribute to making a difference in a homeless pet today!