VOLUNTEERING
	Volunteers are a special breed. They give of their time and are rewarded with rich experiences. At Florida Wildlife Hospital & Sanctuary we hope to provide experiences that make the giving of your time worthwhile and enriching. There are many ways that you can provide much needed assistance towards our goal of helping sick, injured and orphaned wildlife. This guide will tell you how, and will provide you with general information regarding volunteer service. Please call (321) 254-8843 or refer to the bottom of our homepage for the dates of our upcoming volunteer orientations. All volunteers are requested to commit to at least 3 hours of volunteer service each time they come in. It is preferred that time is volunteered on a weekly basis. Whenever possible, volunteers are asked to schedule their time on the same day (or days) each week. After completing orientation, please sign up on our volunteer calendar, or call to advise when you will be available. We also request a call if you have to cancel a scheduled time. This will allow us to be sure we have enough help to provide quality care for our patients. All volunteers are required to have an application on file which includes a contact number for emergencies. Volunteers must be 16 years old, and minors are required to have a signed parent-permission form on file. An up-to-date tetanus shot is requested. For your own safety, please wear closed rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothes. If you work in the wildlife area, be sure not to wear anything you are afraid to get stained or dirty. Sunscreen and insect repellent are suggested. Please do not wear perfume or cologne. While on the grounds, volunteers are asked to be mindful of the sensitivity of the rehabilitating birds and animals to the presence of people. Loud conversation should be avoided if stressful to a nearby bird or animal. Florida Wildlife Hospital retains the right to dismiss any volunteer whose activities or behaviors during service to the hospital are deemed inappropriate or not within the best interests of the hospital.