Early Learning Center (ELC) Volunteers
Early Learning Center
The Early Learning Center is where NEADS houses puppies typically between the ages of 8 – 12 weeks old, before they enter a full time training spot in either the Prison Program or with a Puppy Raiser. The ELC provides world class socialization for puppies and establishes a strong foundation for service dog training. We introduce the puppies to crate training, leash walking, and potty training, as well as continue their overall socialization.
ELC volunteers help run play groups, do 1:1 time with pups, provide enrichment, and help introduce early foundational skills. Volunteers also help with daily operations such as laundry, dishes, cleaning puppy kennel runs, sweeping, mopping, etc.
The Role of the ELC Volunteer:
Volunteers in the ELC must be able to lift up to 20 pounds, bend repeatedly, be on your feet for the entirety of the shift, and be free of knee, back, shoulder, and neck problems. Volunteers must engage in operations tasks like laundry, dishwashing, and sweeping, as well as spending hands-on time with puppies. You must also be okay with cleaning up after puppies.
ELC Volunteer Time Commitment
The time commitment for this volunteer position is a 2 ½ hour shift once a week for a 2-to-3-month period. We offer a morning (7:30am-10am) and afternoon (1:30pm-4pm) shift each day of the week. Each volunteer is assigned a specific shift each week (ex: every Wednesday from 7:30am – 10am). We are looking for volunteers who are able to commit to the same assigned specific shift each week.
We are currently at full capacity and not taking new applications for Early Learning Center volunteers at this time. Please check back later for future opportunities.
ELC Volunteer FAQs
Q. Is there a dress code for volunteering?
Yes. Dress for weather and closed toed shoes only. Keep in mind you would be working with puppies and clothes you wear to this shift will most likely get dirty.
Q: Do I need to have dog experience in order to volunteer in the ELC?
A: No dog experience is required. Supervisors will train volunteers on NEADS handling policies and procedures, and build the volunteer’s confidence when interacting with puppies. All volunteers will also attend an orientation with staff prior to working in the ELC.
Q: What are the minimum requirements for volunteering in the ELC?
A: In addition to the commitments in the role description section of this page, all volunteers must:
– Be 18 years of age or older
– Have a great work ethic and an enthusiastic attitude; be willing to assist staff in any area or for any project that may come up, which may include cleaning tasks projects, or being shifted to the other facility (Breeding Kennel or Nursery)
– Work independently and be able to follow instructions, including reading posted signage
– Be able to lift up to 20 lbs easily; bend, kneel, stoop, stand for 2-3 hours at a time, as this is an active volunteer role physically engaging with dogs
– Perform cleaning tasks with approved chemical cleaners, some of which have strong odors.
– Additionally, ideal volunteer applicants live within a 45 minute one-way commute of NEADS. Previous experience indicates that volunteers living outside this radius are unable to sustain the commute long term (due to expense, traffic patterns, or long periods of adverse weather), and thus become unable to complete their 3 month commitment to NEADS