VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

Be Part of the Change — Volunteer with UnChained

At UnChained, volunteers make transformation possible. Whether it’s working hands-on with dogs, mentoring youth, or supporting behind the scenes, every role helps write a story of second chances.

We welcome people from all walks of life — no experience required, just a passion for compassion. With flexible opportunities across Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties (on-site and remote), there’s a place for you to help dogs heal and youth discover their worth.

No matter your skills or schedule, there’s a place for you here — because change starts with people like you.

Every Foster is a Lifeline — Become One Today

Fostering with UnChained is more than giving a dog a place to stay — it’s becoming part of a healing journey.

With your care, rescue dogs gain confidence and skills while youth in our Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) program learn empathy, trust, and responsibility.

And you won’t be alone — our certified trainers and team provide full support, tools, and guidance every step of the way.

As a foster, you’ll:

  • Provide a loving, temporary home for a dog in training.

  • Reinforce learning and skills at home with UnChained resources.

  • Receive hands-on support from our team so you and the dog succeed.

📅 Time Commitment: 8–12 weeks

📍 Location: Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

Find Your Perfect Role — Volunteer Positions

We’ve got a variety of roles to fit your skills, schedule, and passion. Whether you want to work hands-on with dogs, mentor youth, or support behind the scenes — your contributions matter.

🐾 Dog Foster Parent (8–12 weeks, remote)

  • Provide a loving, temporary home for a rescue dog while they train in our program.

  • Transport them to and from training sessions (need help with transport? We’ve got options!)

  • Reinforce their learning at home with UnChained-provided tools and guidance.

  • Our certified trainers will be with you every step of the way.

Time Commitment: 8–12 weeks
Location: Your home (Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties)

🐕 In-Class Assistant (8 weeks, on-site) Prerequisite for Program Coach

  • Play a vital role in keeping Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) sessions running smoothly.

  • Support youth and dogs with setup, supplies, leash handling, water bowls, and more.

  • Your presence helps every session feel effective, welcoming, and inspiring.

  • This is the first step to becoming a Program Coach.

Time Commitment: 8 weeks
Location: On-site in Monterey/Santa Cruz Counties

🚐 Dog Transport (Flexible scheduling)

  • Be the lifeline that gets our rescue dogs safely to training and back to their foster homes.

  • Keep the CTC program moving forward by ensuring dogs arrive ready to learn and grow.

  • Perfect if you love driving and want a flexible way to make an impact.

Time Commitment: Flexible
Location: Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

🐕‍🦺 Therapy/Guest Dog (1–3 sessions/quarter, on-site)

  • Kick off CTC with your certified therapy dog as a calm, reassuring presence.

  • Model essential obedience skills for youth learning to train their own dogs.

  • Inspire confidence and excitement in young trainers as they begin their journey.

Time Commitment: 1–3 sessions per quarter
Location: On-site in Monterey/Santa Cruz Counties

🎪 Local Events/Outreach (Ongoing, flexible)

  • Be the voice of UnChained at adoption fairs, fundraisers, and community events.

  • Share stories, connect with neighbors, and help us welcome more supporters.

  • Perfect for people who love engaging with the community and making an impact.

Time Commitment: Flexible
Location: Local events

📊 Data Analysis (Remote, ongoing)

  • Turn numbers into action! Track key performance metrics and trends.

  • Provide insights that help UnChained refine strategies and deepen impact.

  • Great for detail-oriented volunteers who want to make a big difference remotely.

Time Commitment: Ongoing
Location: Remote

🎥 Media Production (Remote/On-site)

  • Capture the transformative journey of youth and dogs through video and photography.

  • Document key training moments or create inspiring media from provided content.

  • Flexible opportunities to shoot new material or edit existing footage.

Time Commitment: Flexible
Location: Remote or on-site

🏆 Board Member (Strategic role)

  • Shape the future of UnChained through leadership and vision.

  • Provide guidance in decision-making, community engagement, and fundraising.

  • Help ensure our programs thrive and expand their impact.

Time Commitment: Strategic/ongoing
Location: Remote + in-person as needed

Curious about volunteering?

Not sure where to start? We’re happy to help! Whether you have questions or want to explore the best role for you, reach out anytime—email info@livingunchained.org or call (888) 674-5471.

Not sure where to start? Connect with us anytime.