If you love dogs, you can help us make a difference.
As a 100% volunteer-run organization based in Bloomfield CT, we are entirely dependent on the efforts of our volunteers, and offer many opportunities to help our rescue’s success, both in person and remote. Explore our volunteer opportunities below. When you’re ready to join us, check out our orientation and volunteer application.
Please note that you must be 18 years or older to volunteer with us.
Get involved today.
Volunteer with one or more teams
Ensuring that the right family adopts the right dog involves a lot of emails and phone calls. We need to conduct vet checks, reference checks, phone interviews and confirm property ownership or rental details. If you like getting to know new people over the phone, we could use your help and can train you to assist our adoption screeners.
Dog Star Rescue holds adoption events each week and each dog that attends needs a dog handler. Being a dog handler is a great opportunity to spend a few hours with a rescue dog, talk to potential adopters about your assigned dog, and make sure that your dog has a great afternoon full of positive interactions and interest from adopters. You will get tips and training at your first event.
This team supports every team at the rescue through social media marketing, email marketing, public relations, brand support and more. Proven experience in these fields in a professional setting is required, and comfort with Canva is also a requirement.
As a foster-based rescue, we are always looking for foster homes for our dogs. Fostering a dog saves two lives: the one of the dog you are fostering and the one of the dogs we can now take into the rescue because we have a slot available. The more fosters we have, the more dogs we can save! Learn more about our foster program and when you’re ready, submit a foster application!
As a non-profit organization, every penny we raise goes toward our dogs. While the dog adoption fee is designed to cover basic expenses, we require additional funding to grow and provide the extra care many of our dogs need. We conduct many events annually and also welcome corporate donors to support our fundraising efforts. We welcome volunteers with experience in fundraising and grant writing or an interest in learning the ropes.
Help keep our Bloomfield headquarters clean, safe and organized. If you’re handy or have a specialty trade we’d love to have you help. And if you just want to help keep things tidy – we’d love to have you too!
Our IT team manages our shelter from both a hardware and software perspective. If you are that “Techie” in your family, or if you have professional experience with IT and would like to get involved, we would love your help!
Many of our dogs come up from the south on group transport vehicles and need rides to their foster homes or to a kennel for temporary boarding. In addition, rides are sometimes needed to and from adoption events or to meet and greets with potential adopters. If you have a car, a valid driver’s license and can safely transport a dog in your car, dog transport may be for you!
Our volunteer team works on improving the overall volunteer experience at Dog Star. We manage the volunteer orientation and onboarding experiences and run recognition programs for our volunteers. If you’d like to work to make our rescue a better place for our dedicated volunteers, the volunteer team is for you!
Our retail team is responsible for branded “merch”. If you are creative and want to help showcase our brand, this might be the perfect team for you!
Currently available positions
Key Responsibilities
The Adoption process ensures that the right family is the best match for both the dog and the family when placing the right dog in a forever home. Adoption Specialists are the “face” of the rescue and need to be comfortable interacting with the public and have excellent follow-through skills.
- Monitor and triage interest in assigned dog(s), including communicating updates on the status of an application to an interested family promptly.
- Review and validate the information provided to us via the application process and conduct phone interviews.
- Follow up on all assigned pre-qualified applications to assist in matching them with an adoptable dog.
- Responsible for screening all potential homes for assigned dog(s), often balancing multiple interested applicants at once.
- Provide updates on the adoption status of a dog using Shelter Manager and execute adoption movements, as required.
- Discuss a variety of topics and best practices for transitioning a rescue dog to a new home with potential adopters, including how to house train, crate train, and care for a rescue dog.
- Develop a basic understanding of Dog Star Rescue’s intake, vetting, and foster programs to educate potential adopters properly.
- Communicate openly within the team, as well as with potential adopters and other areas of the rescue.
- Facilitate safe meet and greets, using Dog Star’s best practices, with potential adopters and rescue dogs, including for families with children and other resident dogs.
- Follow the processes, procedures, and best practices outlined in the Adoption Manual.
- Advocate for the best interest of each dog.
- Collaborate with the Foster, Behavior, and other teams when necessary for help with placement.
- Attend and participate in weekly Adoption Events (2 weekends minimum – 3 preferred)
- Additional tasks as needed.
Qualifications
- Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, problem resolution, critical thinking, working independently in a collaborative environment, good time management skills, phone etiquette, active listening skills, and ability to communicate and interact with all kinds of people. Passionate about dogs with the ability to interact positively with dogs of ALL breeds and sizes. Computer literate with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Meets, and Shelter Manager or the willingness to learn.
Benefits
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail
- Problem resolution
- Critical thinking
- Working independently in a collaborative environment
- Good time management skills, phone etiquette, active listening skills, and ability to communicate and interact with all kinds of people.
- Passionate about dogs with the ability to interact positively with dogs of ALL breeds and sizes.
- Computer literate with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office, Google Meets, and Shelter Manager – or the willingness to learn.
Time Commitment
Attend a mandatory orientation program, participate in a mentor program, collaborate with the immediate team and other internal teams, follow organization communication procedures, policies, and guidelines at all times, and volunteer five (5) to twenty (20) hours a month minimum.
Working conditions
Requires sitting for long periods, getting up and down with reaching or bending, manual dexterity with normal hand and finger movements for typical office work, and participation in in-person adoption events. Remote work, with access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and phone. The ability to lift/push/pull at least 50 lbs. May be subject to dog bites and scratches while handling dogs with questionable temperament. Regular bending, reaching, kneeling, sitting on the floor, crouching, and standing/walking for extended periods, with the potential for exposure to animal waste, blood, and zoonotic diseases.
Reports to: Adoptions Team Coordinators
Position Overview
The Volunteer Program Team Lead plays a key role in supporting the Chief Operating Officer (COO) to enhance the volunteer experience at Dog Star Rescue. This position helps to oversee initiatives that strengthen volunteer engagement, education, recruitment, appreciation, and communication. The Program Lead manages the Volunteer Team and ensures that Dog Star Rescue’s volunteer program operates efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with the organization’s values.
Key Responsibilities
Program Development & Execution
- Collaborate with the COO to develop and implement initiatives that enhance volunteer engagement, education, recruitment, and retention.
- Manage the execution of volunteer-related projects and initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and priorities.
- Work with the COO to identify, prioritize, and track opportunities for improving the volunteer experience.
Volunteer Team Management
- Lead and coordinate the Volunteer Team, including scheduling and facilitating team meetings.
- Provide guidance, resources, and support to Volunteer Coordinators to ensure smooth operations and effective communication.
- Promote a positive and inclusive volunteer culture across all teams and events.
Volunteer Communication & Resources
- Manage volunteer-wide communications, including sending key announcements and updates.
- Maintain and updates volunteer resources such as job descriptions, manuals, policies, and training materials.
- Oversee the volunteer contact list and related records within Dog Star IT systems (e.g., DonorView)
Volunteer Conduct & Compliance
- Help triage volunteer issues, including conduct concerns, in collaboration with the COO, Executive Director, and relevant team leads.
- Manage and maintain the Volunteer Code of Conduct, ensuring it is communicated and upheld.
- Periodically review and update the volunteer contract to reflect current policies and best practices.
Training & Education
- Coordinate and manage volunteer training sessions and educational opportunities.
- Collaborate with department leads to identify training needs and deliver effective onboarding and continuing education.
Qualifications
Required:
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Experience working with or managing volunteers.
- Ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion and professionalism.
- Comfort with technology and volunteer management systems (e.g., DonorView or similar platforms).
- Passion for Dog Star Rescue’s mission and the welfare of animals.
Preferred:
- Previous leadership or coordination experience in a nonprofit or volunteer-driven organization.
- Experience developing and implementing volunteer engagement strategies.
- Strong writing skills for crafting volunteer communications and resources.
Benefits
- Play a key role in creating joyful, memorable events that change dogs’ and people’s lives.
- Be part of a supportive, passionate, dog-loving community.
- Gain hands-on experience in event planning and volunteer leadership.
- See the immediate impact of your work at events filled with wagging tails and happy people.
Time Commitment per month
10 – 20 hours
Working conditions
In-person and remote opportunity. Access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and the phone required. In-person attendance at adoption, or other, events is required on a regular basis.
Reports to: COO
Position Overview
The Volunteer Event Coordinator will plan, organize, and oversee events that bring people and pups together. From adoption days that help dogs find their forever homes to volunteer appreciation events that celebrate our amazing team, this role ensures every event runs smoothly, feels welcoming, and leaves volunteers and supporters inspired.
Key Responsibilities
Event Planning & Coordination
- Work with event and volunteer leads to ensure events are well-staffed and supported.
- Oversee event set-up, day-of coordination, and clean-up to create a seamless experience.
Volunteer Engagement at Events
- Assist with recruiting, scheduling, and supporting volunteers for event roles.
- Provide clear communication, training, and encouragement before and during events.
- Ensure volunteers feel appreciated, recognized, and celebrated for their contributions.
Community Connection
- Serve as a welcoming ambassador for the rescue at public events.
- Help share the story of our rescue and the impact of volunteer contributions.
Recognition & Appreciation
- Incorporate creative ways to celebrate and thank volunteers at events.
- Organize volunteer appreciation gatherings to highlight contributions and milestones.
- Share volunteer impact stories through event recaps, photos, and recognition posts.
Qualifications
- Experience in event planning, coordination, or volunteer management (preferred but not required).
- Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills—able to motivate and inspire volunteers.
- Ability to stay calm under pressure and think on your feet during events.
- Flexible schedule, with availability for some evenings and weekends.
- Love for dogs and commitment to animal rescue.
Benefits
- Play a key role in creating joyful, memorable events that change dogs’ and people’s lives.
Be part of a supportive, passionate, dog-loving community. - Gain hands-on experience in event planning and volunteer leadership.
- See the immediate impact of your work at events filled with wagging tails and happy people.
Time Commitment per month
10 – 20 hours
Working conditions
In-person and remote opportunity. Access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and the phone required. In-person attendance at adoption, or other, events is required on a regular basis.
Reports to: COO
Position Overview
The Medical Support Coordinator supports fosters and internal teams by answering routine medical questions, coordinating supplies, and maintaining volunteer-facing medical resources.
Key Responsibilities
Foster & Team Support
- Respond to routine medical questions from fosters, adopters, and internal teams.
- Distribute medications and medical supplies to fosters as needed.
- Track long-term dogs with ongoing medical needs and follow-up requirements.
Education & Resources
- Maintain and update Medical FAQs and volunteer medical resources.
- Organize and support medical trainings and educational workshops.
Care Coordination
- Support adherence to medication, recovery, and isolation protocols in foster homes.
- Coordinate with Behavior, Intake, Adoption, and Foster teams to support holistic care.
- Assist with community vaccine clinics and outreach events.
Qualifications
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Comfortable providing guidance and education to volunteers.
- Organized and able to track follow-ups and ongoing needs.
- Compassionate, calm, and solution-oriented.
- Commitment to Dog Star Rescue’s mission.
Benefits
- Directly support fosters and dogs through medical recovery and care.
- Build educational resources that strengthen volunteer confidence.
- Be part of a supportive, mission-driven organization.
Time Commitment per month
35 – 40 hours
Working conditions
Remote with in-person coordination as needed. Access to reliable internet and phone required.
Reports to: Medical Director
At Dog Star Rescue, strong systems help power lifesaving work. From donor relationships to volunteer engagement, the way we use our tools directly impacts our ability to serve dogs and supporters well. We’re looking for someone excited to truly learn Donorview inside and out—and help others use it confidently and effectively.
Position Overview
The Donorview Systems & Training Coordinator serves as the internal expert on Donorview (DV). This role is responsible for exploring, understanding, and optimizing all DV functionality, and translating that knowledge into practical guidance and training for staff and volunteers across teams. This position ensures Donorview is used consistently, accurately, and to its full potential.
Key Responsibilities
Donorview System Management & Optimization
- Conduct deep dives into Donorview features, tools, and reporting capabilities.
- Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and improve data consistency.
- Maintain documentation of processes, best practices, and system updates.
Cross-Team Training & Support
- Work with teams across the organization to understand their needs and goals within Donorview.
- Develop and deliver training, guides, and one-on-one support to help teams accomplish their tasks in Donorview.
- Serve as the go-to resource for Donorview questions and troubleshooting.
Data Integrity & Consistency
- Promote consistent data entry standards across teams.
- Help identify gaps, duplications, or errors and support cleanup efforts.
- Collaborate with leadership to ensure DV usage aligns with organizational priorities.
Qualifications
- Strong interest in systems, data, and learning new tools.
- Experience with Donorview or similar CRM systems preferred (but not required).
- Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical users.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Collaborative, patient, and comfortable working across teams.
- Commitment to Dog Star Rescue’s mission and values.
Benefits
- Play a critical role in strengthening the systems behind lifesaving work.
- Gain deep experience in nonprofit CRM systems and cross-functional training.
- Be part of a collaborative, mission-driven team.
Time Commitment per month
10 – 20 hours
Working conditions
Remote opportunity. Access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and a phone is required.
Reports to: IT Lead
At Dog Star Rescue, generosity fuels our mission—and every gift deserves to be acknowledged with care and gratitude. We’re seeking someone who can ensure donors feel appreciated, informed, and valued through accurate tracking, thoughtful acknowledgment, and strong internal coordination.
Position Overview
The Donor Recognition Coordinator ensures all donations are accurately tracked, recorded, and properly acknowledged. This role oversees timely and meaningful donor thank-yous, supports strong donor records in Donorview, and works closely with the Treasurer to ensure financial accuracy and alignment.
Key Responsibilities
Donation Tracking & Acknowledgment
- Ensure all donations are accurately recorded in DonorView.
- Oversee timely thank-you letters, emails, and acknowledgments.
- Confirm gifts are properly attributed, categorized, and documented.
Donor Record Management
- Ensure donor records are complete and set up to support future engagement.
- Maintain notes, acknowledgment history, and recognition preferences.
- Support clean and consistent donor data practices.
Internal Coordination & Reporting
- Communicate regularly with the Treasurer to reconcile donation records.
- Flag discrepancies or missing information for follow-up.
- Provide donation and acknowledgment status updates as needed.
Qualifications
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Comfortable working with donor databases or willing to learn.
- Clear, professional written communication skills.
- Reliable and consistent with follow-through.
- Appreciation for donor stewardship and relationship-building.
- Commitment to animal welfare and Dog Star Rescue’s mission.
Benefits
- Help donors feel genuinely valued and connected to the mission.
- Gain experience in nonprofit fundraising operations and donor stewardship.
- Be part of a collaborative, supportive team.
Time Commitment per month
8 – 15 hours
Working conditions
Remote opportunity. Access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and a phone is required.
Reports to: COO (with close collaboration with Treasurer)
At Dog Star Rescue, lasting relationships help sustain lifesaving work. This role focuses on maintaining meaningful connections with the individuals and businesses who have supported us—ensuring they feel informed, appreciated, and engaged over time.
Position Overview
The Donor Retention & Engagement Coordinator is responsible for maintaining donor records, designing thoughtful touchpoints, and supporting ongoing donor relationships. This role ensures past supporters are accurately documented in Donorview, tagged for follow-up, and included in a structured engagement program that blends personal outreach with consistent communication.
Key Responsibilities
Donor Record & Tagging Management
- Ensure past and current donors are accurately entered into Donorview.
- Maintain notes, tags, and engagement history for individuals and businesses.
- Support segmentation for outreach and communication efforts.
Engagement & Touch Program Design
- Help design and manage a donor touch program to maintain strong relationships.
- Coordinate monthly donor communications, including newsletters and personalized messages.
- Track engagement timelines and identify donors at risk of disengagement.
Relationship Support & Escalation
- Monitor donor contact history and flag when personal outreach is needed.
- Notify the Executive Director, COO, or Events Director when donors have not received recent phone calls or personal contact.
- Support leadership in maintaining warm, consistent donor relationships.
Qualifications
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- Organized and comfortable managing detailed records.
- Experience with donor engagement or CRM systems preferred (but not required).
- Thoughtful, proactive, and donor-centered mindset.
- Comfortable working collaboratively with leadership.
- Passion for Dog Star Rescue’s mission.
Benefits
- Help build long-term relationships that sustain lifesaving work.
- Gain experience in donor retention strategy and engagement planning.
- Be part of a compassionate, mission-driven organization.
Time Commitment per month
10 – 15 hours
Working conditions
Remote opportunity. Access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and a phone is required.
Reports to: COO & Executive Director
At Dog Star Rescue, volunteers are the heart of our mission. From fostering dogs to transporting them to safety, from helping at adoption events to spreading the word in the community, our volunteers make everything possible. We’re looking for someone who can celebrate their impact, strengthen their connection to our mission, and ensure they feel valued every step of the way.
Position Overview
The Volunteer Appreciation Coordinator is responsible for cultivating a strong, supportive, and appreciative volunteer community. This role focuses on recognizing contributions, keeping volunteers engaged, and creating opportunities for them to feel connected, inspired, and proud of their work with our rescue.
Key Responsibilities
Volunteer Recognition & Appreciation
- Develop and implement recognition programs (e.g., spotlight features, awards, thank-you campaigns).
- Share stories of volunteer impact across newsletters, social media, and rescue updates.
Volunteer Engagement & Retention
- Build relationships with volunteers to understand their motivations and celebrate their milestones.
- Provide ongoing encouragement, check-ins, and personalized acknowledgments.
Communication & Connection
- Highlight individual and group achievements to the broader rescue community.
- Collect feedback to improve the volunteer experience continually.
Coordination & Collaboration
- Work with team leads (foster, transport, adoption, events) to ensure volunteers feel supported and recognized in their roles.
- Keep volunteer records and celebrate milestones like anniversaries and achievements.
Qualifications
- Passion for recognizing and uplifting others.
- Strong people skills—empathetic, approachable, and a natural relationship-builder.
- Creative ideas for celebrating and showcasing volunteer contributions.
- Organizational skills with attention to detail (so no thank-you goes unnoticed).
- Comfortable with communication tools (email, social media, volunteer platforms).
- A love for dogs and a commitment to the mission of rescue.
Benefits
- Be the champion of the people who make rescue possible.
- See firsthand the joy and impact of volunteer contributions.
- Opportunity to design creative recognition and appreciation programs.
- Work with a team that values heart, gratitude, and compassion as much as hard work.
Time Commitment per month
10 – 20 hours
Working conditions
Mostly remote work, with access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and the phone. In-person attendance required at adoption, or other, events on an as-needed basis.
Reports to: IT Lead