Volunteer opportunities
SDV would not be able to continue our mission without our dedicated group of volunteers. We welcome all levels of involvement and work hard to provide our volunteers with a unique and fulfilling experience. Please see Volunteer FAQs for more information
Puppy Raisers
Puppy Raisers open their homes and hearts to future service dogs, raising puppies for approximately 12 months*. Puppy Raisers learn how to socialize, train, and create a solid foundation in their puppy before returning them to SDV for advanced training. Puppy Raisers must attend weekly or biweekly training classes at our facility or other designated location in public.
*we can often accommodate shorter periods of time if necessary
Nights and Weekends Volunteers
Our Nights and Weekends volunteers house our dogs in advanced training during the weekday nights and on weekends. They are responsible for bringing them to our facility (673 Berkmar Ct, Charlottesville, VA 22901) during the weekdays for training.
Respite Volunteers
Respite volunteers provide care for our puppies and/or dogs in advanced training when their usual caretaker is unavailable.
Dog Walkers
Dog Walkers are needed to walk dogs in advanced training during the week. Dog Walkers provide much needed socialization and exercise to promote overall good health for service dogs in training.
We are currently not taking dog walker volunteers at this time.
Currently not taking applications
Special Events Volunteers
Special events volunteers assist with fundraising events. This is a wonderful way to have a great time while helping us strengthen our organization and mission. Additionally, volunteers are needed for our Annual Open House (August) and Graduation (December).
We are currently not taking special events volunteers at this time.
Currently not taking applications
All-Purpose Volunteers
Our “all-purpose helpers” are those who are willing to wash crates, wash windows, or lend a hand in other ways at our facility.
We are currently not taking all-purpose volunteers at this time.
Currently not taking applications
Volunteers wanting to be puppy raisers, nights and weekends volunteers, dog walkers, or respite volunteers must attend SDV’s volunteer class. Generally, classes are held either on a weeknight at 5:30 or 6:00 pm, or during the day on Saturday. Please fill out the volunteer application and you will be notified when the next class is scheduled. You must be at least 18 years of age to handle a service dog in training.