VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

Change a Life –
Volunteer with UnChained

Join a movement that transforms lives! At UnChained, we believe that every act of kindness has the power to create lasting change.

No matter your skills, schedule, or passion, there’s a place for you at UnChained! Whether you want to work hands-on with dogs, mentor youth, or provide crucial behind-the-scenes support, your contributions help change lives.

Volunteer in Monterey & Santa Cruz Counties

  • Flexible Opportunities – On-Site & Remote

  • No Experience Needed – Just a Passion for Change

No matter your skills, schedule, or passion, there’s a place for you here! Choose a role that speaks to you and start making a difference today.

Be a Hero to a Rescue Dog –
Become a Dog Foster Parent

Fostering with UnChained is more than just opening your home to a dog—it's becoming part of a movement that changes lives.

With our full support, you’ll help a rescue dog gain confidence and skills while empowering youth in our Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) program. And don’t worry—you’re never doing this alone. We’ll be with you every step of the way!

As a foster, you’ll:

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

  • Transport your foster dog to and from their weekly training sessions.

  • Reinforce training at home using UnChained-provided tools and guidance.

  • Get hands-on support from UnChained’s certified trainers so you feel confident every step of the way.

We’ll make sure you have everything you need—training, supplies, and a team that has your back.

📅 Time Commitment: 8-12 weeks

📍 Location: Your home (Monterey/Santa Cruz Counties)

Find Your Perfect Role –
Volunteer Positions

We have a variety of volunteer roles to fit your skills, availability, and passion. Whether hands-on with dogs, mentoring youth, or supporting behind the scenes—your contributions matter!

Top Volunteer Needs:

🐶 Dog Foster Parent (8-12 weeks, remote)

  • As a foster, you’ll provide a loving, temporary home for a rescue dog while they participate in our Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) program. You'll transport them to and from training sessions (Need help with transport? Let us know—we’ve got options!) and reinforce their learning at home using UnChained-provided training tools and guidance.

  • Our certified trainers will equip you with the knowledge and resources to support your foster dog’s success. We’re here for you every step of the way, so you can feel confident and supported throughout the fostering experience. (8-12 weeks, remote)

🙋 In-Class Assistant (8 weeks, on-site) - *This role is a prerequisite for becoming a Program Coach.*

  • Step into a vital role that keeps our Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) training sessions running like clockwork! As an In-Class Assistant, you’re part of the team making a real difference—ensuring every youth and dog have what they need to succeed. From refreshing water bowls and keeping treats stocked to assisting with leash handling and setting up training spaces, your support makes each session effective and inspiring. This role is also the first stepping-stone to becoming a Program Coach. where you will get the opportunity to work with our the program’s youth directly.

  • Whether it’s preparing agility equipment or helping create a welcoming learning environment, you’ll play an essential role in shaping the success of our program. (8 weeks, on-site)

🚗 Dog Transport (Flexible scheduling)

  • Be the lifeline that helps our rescue dogs get where they need to be! As a Dog Transport Volunteer, you’ll ensure that dogs safely arrive at their training sessions and back to their foster homes. Your role is essential in keeping our Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) program running smoothly, allowing youth and dogs to focus on their journey of growth and transformation.

  • If you love driving and want to make a direct impact with flexible scheduling, this role is for you!

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

  • Help us kick off our Canines Teaching Compassion (CTC) program in an inspiring way! In this special role, you and your certified therapy dog will provide a warm and reassuring presence during the first 1-2 classes of each 8-week session. Your dog will model essential basic obedience skills, giving new youth trainers a hands-on example of the techniques they’ll soon be teaching their own program dogs.

  • By helping set the foundation for a positive, engaging learning environment, you’ll give these young trainers the confidence and excitement they need to begin their journey. (1-3 sessions/quarter)

🎪 Local Events/Outreach (Ongoing, flexible)

  • Be the voice of UnChained in the community! As a Local Events & Outreach Volunteer, you’ll help spread awareness about our mission by representing UnChained at community events, adoption fairs, and fundraisers. Whether engaging with attendees, sharing inspiring stories of youth and dogs, or helping set up event booths, your presence helps us connect with more supporters and future volunteers.

  • If you love meeting people and want to be part of something bigger, this is the perfect way to make an impact—on your schedule!

📊 Data Analysis (Remote, ongoing)

  • Turn numbers into impact! As a Data Analysis Volunteer, you’ll play a crucial role in measuring the success of our outreach and programs. By tracking key performance metrics, identifying trends, and providing insights, you’ll help UnChained refine strategies that expand our reach and deepen our impact.

  • If you love working with data and want to use your skills to drive meaningful change, this role is for you! (Remote)

🎥 Media Production

  • Bring UnChained’s mission to life through powerful storytelling! As a Media Production Volunteer, you’ll play a crucial role in capturing the transformative journey of our youth and dogs. Whether joining us on-site to document breakthrough training moments or creating compelling video content from provided footage, your work will help inspire others to get involved.

  • With a flexible role that allows you to shoot original content or edit pre-existing materials, this is the perfect opportunity for creative individuals passionate about using media to make an impact. (Remote/On-Site)

🏆 Board Member (Strategic leadership role)

  • Help shape the future of UnChained! As a Board Member, you’ll provide strategic leadership, guidance, and expertise to ensure our programs continue to thrive. Your role will involve high-level decision-making, community engagement, and helping to secure the resources needed to expand our impact.

  • If you're passionate about shaping the future of UnChained and using your experience to make a lasting impact, we’d love to have you on our team!

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.