Volunteers must be at least 12 years old. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times — if you're under 18, start here. Minimum age may vary depending on the volunteer opportunity.
Volunteer with Animals in New York City
With hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats killed in shelters every year simply because they don't have safe places to call home, one of the most valuable gifts you can give is your time — right here in New York City.
Temporary closure!
Beginning June 4th through mid-August, our Pet Adoption Center in Soho will temporarily close for renovations in accordance with the Companion Animal Care Act. In the interim, we’ll be operating out of a new pop-up Brooklyn location, The Spot BK at 232 Varet Street, Brooklyn.
During this transition, volunteer support will be more important than ever, especially from our amazing foster community and transport volunteers, as we adapt to operating in a smaller space.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR VOLUNTEERING?
We are temporarily pausing training for new volunteers in direct cat and dog care while we establish operations in the new space.
In the meantime, we hope you’ll consider supporting us through:
What to expect
After you complete your application and profile, you will receive an automated email with details about volunteer opportunities and sign-up instructions.
Ways to volunteer in New York City
Whatever your interests, there's a way to make a lifesaving difference for dogs and cats right here in New York City.
On-site animal care
At our Pet Adoption Center in SoHo, volunteers provide hands-on care to dogs and cats who are waiting for homes — giving them the companionship, exercise, and attention they need to thrive. It's the most direct way to make a difference, and we'll train you for everything.
Transport
Transport volunteers are the logistical backbone of our lifesaving work in New York City. Whether you're providing a ride to a veterinary appointment or moving a dog or cat to a shelter where they're more likely to be adopted, you're putting animals on the road to better outcomes. No special vehicle required.
Visitor tours and information
Help welcome visitors to our SoHo center, share what we're doing to save the lives of dogs and cats in New York City, and connect potential adopters with the animals in our care. If you love talking about animals and the no-kill mission, this is your role.
Spanish translation
We serve the full New York City community, and Spanish-speaking volunteers play a vital role in making that possible. Translation support helps us connect with more potential adopters, foster caregivers, and supporters across the five boroughs.
Adoption Ambassador
Volunteers play a key role in helping our pets find loving homes. From speaking with potential adopters and answering questions to supporting meet-and-greets and guiding people through the adoption process, this role is all about making meaningful matches. If you enjoy connecting with people and want to directly impact an animal’s journey home, we’ll provide the training and support you need to feel confident in this role.
Remote volunteering — NOVA
Want to help from home? Through our National Operations Volunteers & Ambassadors (NOVA) program, you can support lifesaving work in New York City and across the country from wherever you are — writing animal bios, entering data, following up with adopters, and more.
Are you a teen in New York City who loves animals?
With a minimum age of 12, Best Friends in New York City is one of the few places in the city where middle and high school students can volunteer directly with animals. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Minimum age may vary depending on the role.
Common questions about volunteering in New York City
Do I need experience to volunteer?
No experience is necessary — we'll provide all the training you need. Whatever your background, there's a role for you.
What is the minimum age to volunteer?
Volunteers must be at least 12 years old. Volunteers under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Minimum age may vary depending on the opportunity — check the volunteer portal for specifics.
How long are volunteer shifts?
Shift lengths vary by role and opportunity. Once you complete your application and training, you'll have access to the full schedule and can choose shifts that work for you.
Do I need a car?
Not for most roles. On-site volunteering at our SoHo center and many other opportunities don't require a vehicle. Transport roles likely require a car — check the volunteer portal for details.
How do I sign up if I've volunteered before?
If you've volunteered with Best Friends before, you probably have a volunteer profile already. Inactive profiles are deactivated after six months — email volunteernyc@bestfriends.org for help getting your account reactivated.
Where is the center located?
Our Pet Adoption Center is in SoHo at 307 West Broadway, New York, NY 10013.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and closed-toe shoes. We'll take care of the rest.
Can I volunteer just once, or is it a recurring commitment?
Both are welcome. We have one-time opportunities as well as ongoing roles — check the volunteer portal for what's currently available.
More ways to save the lives of dogs and cats in New York City
You create a happier, healthier, more compassionate community for both people and pets when you foster, volunteer, and advocate for dogs and cats right here in New York City.
Join a local team of advocates
We make the most change for animals when we work together, which is why we formed the Best Friends Action Team. Once you sign up, you'll receive emails with more ways you can help save dogs and cats in New York City and across the country. Together, we can Save Them All.
