ANIMALS: Dog Walking​/Sitting at O-Lot Safe Sleep Site

Overview

Dreams for Change is launching a special volunteer opportunity focused on supporting individuals experiencing homelessness who have pets. Many of these pets provide companionship, unconditional love, and a sense of responsibility for their owners. Volunteers walk dogs, spend time with them, and assist on-site at a safe sleeping site in O-Lot, San Diego, where Dreams for Change offers services to individuals experiencing homelessness.

On arrival, volunteers check in with case managers who provide a list of on-site pets and owners interested in dog walking. Each dog walk can last up to 20 minutes; volunteers should remain on or near the site during this time. On-site amenities include tents, restrooms, handwashing stations, charging stations, meals, and case management services.

• Walking dogs of various sizes and strengths
• Looking after and playing with the dogs

• Comfortable handling and walking dogs of varying sizes
• Patient, compassionate, and respectful when engaging with vulnerable individuals
• Ability to follow safety and site policies
• Must pass a Megan’s Law screening

On-site training provided at the beginning of the shift. Training includes guidance on handling dogs, communicating with staff, and respecting client privacy.

Comfortable clothing and good walking shoes. This opportunity takes place outdoors with plenty of shade.

This opportunity is not able to accommodate individuals with physical limitations. The space is wheelchair accessible.

Dreams for Change has a no-photo policy in place.

All emails will be sent from

Clearing a Megan’s Law California Sex Offender search before your first shift is required to participate. You must download the Hands On Connect app to electronically sign the waiver and check in at this volunteer opportunity. If you do not sign in using the app, your service hours will not be verified or modifiable. The Hands On Connect App is available in the Apple Store and Google Play.

If you do not download the app and sign in with the on-site Hands On San Diego QR code, your hours will not count. The QR Code and Dreams for Change Sign in kiosk are not the same; you must do both.

The mission of Dreams for Change is to respond to community needs by creating innovative and cost-effective programs to empower and stabilize the lives of families and individuals.

Population Served:
Homeless

Activity Type:
Caring for Animals

Requirements:
Age 18+ (with adult)

Registration is closed for this Volunteer Opportunity. Full opportunity address and directions will be sent by e-mail after you sign up. All volunteers must be registered in advance to attend.

Your donation means more volunteers making an impact on San Diego nonprofits, schools, and parks.