VOLUNTEER
volunteer@guidedogsofthedesert.org
 

Volunteer Opportunities with Guide Dogs of the Desert:

• Tour Guides: Welcome visitors and conduct tours of the Training Center. Provide an overview of our mission and how we achieve it, and also discuss how others can become involved in our activities.
       

• Public Speakers: Our graduates, area coordinators, puppy raisers and other volunteers assist us in giving presentations to schools and community groups to make the public more aware of the capabilities of the visually impaired and the mission of Guide Dogs of the Desert.
       

• Student Interaction: During classes, volunteers may be needed to drive students to religious services, medical appointments, shopping, or community events. Volunteers may be called to read to students, write letters for students and participate in recreation activities. (ex. play board games with students)
       

• Clerical/Office: Perform various clerical duties, including answering phones, data entry, bulk mailings, photocopying and envelope counting. Help with filling orders for the holidays and with annual inventory activities.
       

• Puppy Raisers: Puppy Raisers take 8-week-old puppies into their homes until they reach 18-22 months of age. Our puppy raisers share their love and time to help a visually impaired person by giving guide dog puppies a special upbringing. The raisers provide obedience and manners training that serve as the foundation for future guide dog training.
       

• Brood/Stud Fosters: These volunteers serve as foster families for dogs active in the breeding program. Fosters are responsible for keeping the dog in excellent physical condition and providing a safe, loving environment for our valuable breeding stock.
       

• Assist in Special Events: Work at various events that support our organizations such as Graduations, puppy raiser meetings, booth volunteers and animal events, fundraising events such as walkathons, golf tournaments, galas, etc.
       

• Volunteer Organization: Coordinate volunteers for specific area activities. Work with other coordinators and staff to support Guide Dogs of the Desert Events. 

Our Policy

It is the policy of Guide Dogs of the Desert to provide equal opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual preference, age or disability.