Volunteer
Be the Difference for a Wild Life
Every towel folded, every enclosure cleaned, every meal prepped—behind each small act is a bigger mission: to return wild animals to the world where they belong. Volunteers are the heart of the Santa Barbara Wildlife Care Network. Whether you're feeding orphaned birds, answering hotline calls, transporting animals to the Wildlife Hospital, or even helping with landscaping, your time directly supports thousands of animal rescues every year.
Ready to lend a helping hand? We’d love to have you on the team.
Volunteer Roles
SBWCN offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities suited to different skill sets, comfort levels, and schedules. Here are just a few ways to get involved:
- Animal Husbandry: Help feed, clean, and care for patients
- Rescue/Transport: Safely rescue and/or drive injured wildlife to the center
- Helpline: Field wildlife calls and guide the public on what to do next.
- Miscellaneous: Assist with facilities, maintenance, gardening, or administrative help
What You’ll Need
- Minimum Age: Volunteers must be 18 years or older. (Minors between the ages of 13-17 are able to volunteer alongside their guardian, email volunteer@sbwcn.org for more information about volunteering as a minor)
- Commitment: A weekly shift of 4 hours
- Training: All volunteers attend a mandatory orientation and receive appropriate training.
You don’t need animal experience—just a willingness to learn and a love for the wild.
Volunteer FAQs
Do I need experience to volunteer with animals?
No prior animal experience is required. We’ll train you on everything you need to know to safely support our wildlife hospital.
Is there a minimum time commitment?
We ask volunteers to commit to one 4hr shift a week (except for rescue/transport).
Can I volunteer with a group or workplace team?
Yes! We occasionally host group volunteer days for schools, businesses, and community organizations. Reach out to our volunteer coordinator to learn more.
Can I volunteer if I’m under 18?
People can volunteer if they are under 18. We do allow 13-17 year olds if they volunteer alongside their guardian or an adult over 25 years old approved by their guardian.
Do you accept court-ordered community service volunteers?
Please contact our team directly to discuss court-ordered service opportunities. Eligibility is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Questions?
Email our team at volunteer@sbwcn.org or call us at (805) 681-1080.
You don’t need to be a wildlife expert to make a wild difference—just start with a little time and a lot of heart.
