Volunteer Assistant

Job Overview

Title: Volunteer Assistant

Reports to: Director of Marketing and Community Engagement

Hours: 10 hours per week, may include some evening and weekend hours

Status: Non- Exempt

Summary: The Volunteer Assistant is responsible for meeting organizational needs through the maintenance, development, organization, and coordination of volunteer activity at the Dubuque Regional Humane Society (DRHS). The Volunteer Assistant will be responsible for performing administrative duties related to recruiting, training, and communicating with DRHS volunteers.

Essential Job Functions

 Volunteer Program

• Maintain volunteer database and volunteer information. Ensure the accurate entry of volunteer information and hours served.
• Update and maintain the Volunteer Handbook. Develop volunteer policies to minimize risk, protect the DRHS and volunteers, and promote the mission.
• Prepare for and schedule volunteer trainings. Provide 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.
• Train staff to effectively interact and support volunteer activities.
• Execute performance evaluation and provide effective coaching to volunteers.
• 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.
• Develop and maintain advanced/specialized volunteer teams and training to ensure continual growth of the volunteer program.
• 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.

General Responsibilities

• Supervise the activities of the Volunteer department interns.
• Be knowledgeable and qualified to handle shelter emergencies.
• Assist with tours, lectures, educational programs, special events, and fundraising as needed.
• Participate in public appearances to maintain and enhance the image and presence of the DRHS in the community.
• Execute other duties as assigned.

 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.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Animal Science, Management or related coursework or combination of equivalent education and work experience. Prior experience in volunteer coordination or non-profit work is desired.
• Have thorough understanding and working knowledge of volunteer programs and best practices.
• Communicate effectively to large audiences and individuals. Know appropriate use of verbal, written, and e-mail communication and select appropriate channels when needed.
• Work collaboratively with diverse groups of people including volunteers, department supervisors, and staff.
• Have a steadfast belief in the mission, policies, and procedures of the DRHS.
• Make decisions in the best interest of the organization.
• Have strong organization, interpersonal, and multi-tasking skills. Able to prioritize and adhere to deadlines. Self-driven and goal orientated.
• Is detail-oriented and resourceful.
• Have a valid driver’s license and current auto insurance.

 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.