Help Save The Lives of Cats And Kittens by Volunteering
You Are A Hero.
Not the one that wears a cape or flies around the city, but a hero of a different kind. A hero that makes organizations like Richardsons Rescue possible.
Because of your passion and dedication to making this world a better place, animals will be able to fight off starvation and other afflictions for a better life, full of love.
Ways to Volunteer
From scooping litter boxes, to organizing fundraising events and anything in between. Every bit makes a difference.
Volunteer and assist at adoption stands
Staff community events
Answer e-mails
Post our news on social media
Transport cats to vet appointments and adoption stands
Feed and care for our foster kitties residing at our home office in Mechanicsville
Benefits of Volunteering
Build Long Lasting Relationships
Whether you need to take care of your community service hours or are looking for a hobby, volunteering gives you the opportunity to make friends with likeminded people.
Boost Your Physical, Mental and Emotional Health
75% of U.S. adults feel physically healthier by volunteering. The mental and emotional benefits of volunteering are even greater, with 93% describing an improved mood, 79% reporting lower stress levels, and 88% reporting increased self-esteem by giving back.
Develop Important Real-World Skills
Volunteering can teach you skills that you will be able to takeaway and apply long after. Volunteers learn how to become leaders, effectively manage their time, communicate and network, and develop and enhance your professionalism.
What Our Volunteers Have to Say
“I volunteer with Richardsons Rescue because I choose to be with a rescue team that is professional and exceptional with animals. There are several rescues in Richmond. Nobody compares to Richardsons team.”
— Christy D.
“We decided to volunteer after our own wonderful experience adopting a cat. Helen took the time to understand our existing cat’s behavior before she recommended a playmate.”
— Debbie M.
“I began volunteering with Richardsons Rescue because I wanted to get involved with a cat rescue that was making a difference in our community. Between the strong leadership, amazing foster homes, adoption events at local businesses, the TNR program and more, it’s evident that they take the “Rescue, Rehabilitate, Rehome, Repeat” motto to heart and I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of the team!”
— Bonnie G.
FAQs
How old do I have to be to volunteer?
We welcome all volunteers!
If you’re under 16, you must have a parent accompany you to volunteer. If you’re under 18, a parent must either accompany you to volunteer or sign a permission slip.
How often do I have to volunteer?
It is entirely up to you as to how much you volunteer! We have sign up sheets when we hold events so don’t feel like you have to dedicate a lot of time, but any time you can is helpful.
What should I wear to a volunteer event?
We provide Richardsons Rescue T-shirts for our volunteers to wear at events.
Do I need to have experience to volunteer?
No! We will train you on anything you need to learn.
What if my schedule is unpredictable and I’m not sure how much time I can volunteer?
Reach out to us with your availability and we will provide you with tasks/events where we need help! Again, we appreciate any time you can give to help the cats.
Can my group, organization or company volunteer?
YES! If your workplace, organization, club or charity wants to volunteer, contact us and we will work with you to make it happen!
ATTENTION TEACHERS! Richardsons Rescue partners with a local high school class that fosters our cats. This is a fun and rewarding learning experience for classmates, teachers and parents!
We also welcome the assistance of high school students who want to complete school required volunteer community service hours.
Here are some kitty lifesaving opportunities for students:
Donate your time at our adoption stands on select Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Our adoption stands are held at Petco, 1520 Parham Road, Henrico and Petco, 13329 Rittenhouse Drive, Midlothian, in Village at Swift Creek Shopping Center
Host school fundraisers to help Richardsons Rescue pay for much needed medical care and rehab for the many cats and kittens in our care awaiting adoption
Clean kitten condos at our PETCO PARTNER STORES that showcase our adoptable kittens
Foster a cat or kitten in your home (parental permission required)