Volunteer With Us

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We’re so excited that you’re interested in volunteering with us!

Our volunteers are the heart of ARPO—we couldn’t do what we do without you. We look forward to welcoming you to our team and giving you a closer look at the work that powers our mission.

Take a few minutes to explore our website: learn about our foster and adoption processes (don’t worry—no quizzes!), and check out the inspiring stories of animals whose lives have been transformed through our rescue.

When you're ready, we’d love for you to complete our VOLUNTEER APPLICATION

Join Our Pack!

pick from multiple Volunteer opportunities below

Foster Parent

As a foster parent with ARPO, you play a vital role in giving homeless cats and dogs a second chance at life. Our foster homes are the bridge between rescue and adoption - offering love, care, and stability in a home enviroment until each pet finds their forever family. Foster parents provide: * A safe, nuturing home environment * Daily care including feeding, basic grooming, and exercise * Socialization and affection to help pets thrive * Transportation to veterinary appoints and adoption events (as needed) * Insight into pet's personaliy to help match them with the right adopter We supply the essentials - vet care, food and supplies as donations allow. You provide the heart. Whether you're experienced or now to fostering, we welcome compassionate individuals ready to make a difference. Every home you open, every day you share - it all addes up to lives saved.

Kitty Assistant at Nine Lives Cat Cafe

Are you a cat lover with a passion for helping pets find forever homes? ARPO is looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to serve as Kitty Coordinators at Nine Lives Cat Cafe. What you'll do: * Greet and engage with visitors in the cat lounge * Answer questions about ARPO's adoptable cats and kittens * Assist potential adopters with the application process * Help with light cleaning and tidying of the cat space * Be a positive ambassador for ARPO This role is perfect for someone who enjoys connecting with people and animals, and wants to be part of making happy endings happen - one adoption at a time! Training and support are provided. Shifts are flexible, but consistency is appreciated.

Volunteer at Events

ARPO has several large fundraising events throughout the year that require a lot of volunteers to make them a success! Some of these events include: * Whiskey & Whiskers * Dog Olympics * Cattyshack and Dogleg Classic * Pet Pictures with Santa and the Easter Bunny We also have adoption events and community appearances where volunteers are needed: * Broad Ripple Farmers Market * Irvington Farmers Market * Adoption events at local pet stores

Transportation

We have foster families located in various sides of town in the Indianapolis area. Sometimes we need volunteers to drive animals to an adoption event, vet appointment, or a fundraiser. Occasionally, we will need drivers to help deliver animals to their foster homes after being pulled from a shelter. Every 5-6 weeks we need volunteers to help deliver food and supplies to foster homes after picking up items from the pet pantry.

Board Member

ARPO is seeking dedicated individuals to join our Board of Directors and help guide our mission of promoting responsbile pet ownership and saving the lives of homeless cats and dogs. As a board member, you will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of the organization, supporting fundraising efforts, and ensuring we remain a strong, effective, and community focused rescue. Responsibilities: * Attend and actively partipate in regular board meetings * Help develop and oversee organizational strategies and policies * Support fundraising efforts, events, and community outreach * Serve as an ambassador for ARPO in the community * Assist with decision making related to rescue operations, finances, and partnerships * Ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards * Make a personal commitment to support ARPO's mission Qualifications: * Passion for animal welfare and rescue work * Strong communication, leadership, and collaboration skills * Willingness to be hands on and involved in key initiatives * Prior board or nonprofit experience is helpful, but not required

Host an Event or Fundraiser

Consider hosting a bake sale, organizing a raffle or silent auction, collecting donated items at your business . . . the options are endless. Contact us so we can help you get the resources you need to create an amazing event to benefit ARPO!

Join Our Pack!

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