VOLUNTEER
From raising puppies to running events, your time and talent directly change lives. Find the role that’s right for you — or tell us your skills and we’ll find the match.
Volunteer Roles
Click any role to see full details — requirements, timing, and what to expect.
Puppy Foster
Open your home to a pup from 7–8 weeks old through their first year. The most rewarding role we offer.
Puppy Sitter
Provide back-up care for puppies when fosters need a hand. Hours to weeks — flexible and impactful.
Driver
Transport dogs to schools and training across Simcoe County using the COPE van. Weekday shifts, 2–4 hours.
Event / Fundraising
Help plan events, connect with sponsors, and run campaigns that fuel our mission and grow our community.
Board of Directors
Provide strategic leadership and governance to help COPE grow, thrive, and fulfil its mission long-term.
Offer Your Skills
Photography, design, legal, accounting, web, writing — if you have a talent, we have a place for it.
Who can apply
- 18 years or older
- Full household support
- Max 2 dogs in home, none under 12 months
- All other pets spayed/neutered
- Safe fenced yard ideal
Your responsibilities
- Attend mandatory training sessions
- Transport puppy to Barrie/Innisfil facilities
- Socialize puppy in public settings
- Follow COPE training methods throughout
What COPE provides
- Crate, leash and COPE ID
- Regular vet care and food
- Full training and ongoing support
- Community of fellow fosters
Who can apply
- 18 years or older
- Full household support
- Max 2 dogs in home
- Able to transport puppy to school
Timing
- Varies — hours, days or weeks
- Based on foster's availability
- Ongoing, as needed
- Great for flexible schedules
What COPE provides
- Training on application approval
- Ongoing staff support
- All dog essentials while sitting
Requirements
- 25 years or older
- Class G driver's licence
- Clean driving record
- Available weekdays
- Minimum 2 shifts per week
The role
- Transport dogs to Canines in the Classroom
- Refinement Training in Simcoe County
- COPE van provided
- Shifts are 2–4 hours each
Training provided
- 1.5-hour in-person orientation
- One shadowing shift with experienced driver
- No prior dog experience required
What's involved
- Event planning and coordination
- Corporate and community outreach
- Online campaign support
- Sponsorship and grant research
- Host your own fundraiser
Good fit if you have
- Event planning experience
- Sales or communications background
- Marketing or social media skills
- Community connections in Simcoe County
Timing
- Flexible — project-based
- Seasonal intensity around events
- Remote-friendly for many tasks
- Great for groups or small teams
What's involved
- Strategic oversight and governance
- Financial stewardship
- Policy development
- Advocacy and community representation
- Supporting the Executive Director
Good fit if you have
- Leadership or governance experience
- Background in law, finance, HR or nonprofit
- Passion for the COPE mission
- Time to attend regular board meetings
Commitment
- Monthly board meetings
- Sub-committee work as needed
- Typically a 2-year term
- Meaningful long-term impact
Creative skills
- Photography / videography
- Graphic design
- Writing and editing
- Social media management
- Web development
Professional skills
- Legal / HR
- Accounting / bookkeeping
- Healthcare or veterinary
- Education and training
- Business development
How it works
- Tell us your skills in the pre-application
- Our Volunteer Coordinator will reach out
- We'll find the right fit together
- Flexible timing and commitment
It takes a pack
Check out some of our amazing volunteers
What happens after you apply?
What happens after you apply?
We Reach Out
After your pre-application is received, someone will contact you personally to discuss next steps.
Full Application
We'll send you the detailed application for your chosen role.
Orientation
Training and onboarding will get you set up for success.
Join the Pack!
You're officially part of the COPE family. Welcome!
Volunteer Pre-Application
Tell us a little about yourself and what you're interested in. We'll be in touch with the full application.