Volunteer Manual
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Table of Contents
Welcome message
1. About Great Plains SPCA
2. Locations and Hours of Operation
3. Volunteer Role and Benefits
4. Volunteer Requirements
a. Age Requirements
b. Commitment Requirements
c. Certificate of Ability
d. Skill and Experience Requirements
5. Volunteer Program Policies
a. Appropriate Attire
b. Health and Safety
c. Disease Control
d. Accident Policy
e. Visitors and Personal Guests
f. Alcohol and Drug Policy
g. Sexual and Other Unlawful Harassment
h. Smoking
6. Volunteer Supervision
7. Discipline and Grievance
a. Disciplinary Action
b. Grievances
c. Dismissal
8. Scheduling and Sign-In Procedures
9. Non-Disclosure
10. Social Media Statement
11. Photo Release
Appendices
A. Volunteer Code of Ethics
B. Volunteer Opportunities
C. Volunteer Communication
D. Adoption and Receiving Process
E. Foster Program
F. Euthanasia Hold
G. Stray Surrender Policy
Release of Waiver and Liability
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Dear Volunteer,
Welcome to Great Plains SPCA!
Volunteers are essential to our mission, and we thank you for choosing us. We simply can’t do it
without the generous and faithful support of people like you.
This manual should answer most common questions and the Cat 101/Dog 101 training
presentations and your Mentor Shift session should address any additional needs. Please know
that your questions, comments or concerns are always welcome.
On behalf of everyone at Great Plains SPCA, two-legged and four, we welcome you. We’re very
glad to have you.
Best,
Rachel Bracken
Volunteer Manager – Independence
[email protected]
913-808-3397
Elizabeth Shelton
Volunteer Manager – Merriam
[email protected]
913-808-3368
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1. About Great Plains SPCA
Our mission: To drive change in our community through innovative programs that promote
adoption, outreach, veterinary care, and a better life for pets and the people who love them.
Kansas City animal welfare has come a long way thanks to a community of devoted
organizations, rescue groups and individual animal advocates. Great Plains SPCA collaborates
with many of the other animal welfare agencies in the area, because together we can
accomplish more.
But what sets us apart?
We are the Kansas City Metro’s most unique and comprehensive No Kill animal welfare
organization, serving more than 35,000 needy pets annually – more than any other agency
in the area.
 With a bi-state presence in Merriam and Independence, we are ready to transform
Kansas City and beyond to a lifesaving No Kill community.
 We proudly report a live-release rate of 96% or higher.
 We offer a lifelong, full-circle approach for pets and their human companions with our
three-pronged approach: prevention, adoption, retention.
Leadership at Great Plains SPCA is comprised of experienced business professionals and experts
in the animal welfare field. Collectively, our Executive Leadership Team has a wealth of
experience in this industry. In addition, we are fortunate to have the support of highly respected
business leaders on our Board of Directors and in our community to help us drive our mission
forward.
Our community benefits from our comprehensive services including:
 Humane, compassionate sheltering of homeless animals
 Creating families through pet adoptions
 Reconnecting families with lost pet reunions
 Comprehensive, affordable veterinary care for the public
 Quality medical care for shelter animals
 High-quality, low-cost spay/neuter programs for the public
 Broad community outreach and education programs
 Effective volunteer, foster, rescue and transport programs
 Trap, neuter and return for feral and free-roaming cats
 Targeted pet retention and behavior training programs
 Pet ID and licensing programs which increase our ability to return lost pets to their
owners
 Management of lost and stray pets for five Johnson County municipalities, the City of
Independence, Unincorporated Jackson County and Sugar Creek
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At Great Plains SPCA, we believe that no matter what their size, shape or story, all dogs and cats
deserve the chance to live long, happy and healthy lives. That’s why our team of experts works
hard every day to be a lifeline to a better future for pets by providing comprehensive, affordable
medical care, adoption services and innovative community programs. Because we know that
with a little support, people and pets can build a bond unlike any other, creating happier homes
and a community that values life and love.
History
Great Plains SPCA, a Missouri 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization, was formed through the official
merger of two lifesaving organizations in June 2011 – Animal Haven and No More Homeless Pets
KC.
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Animal Haven was founded in 1966 and grew to be the largest animal welfare organization in
Johnson County. Animal Haven managed twelve Johnson County municipal contracts and showed
high success in both adoptions and returning lost pets to owners.
No More Homeless Pets KC launched in October 2003. They opened a spay and neuter clinic in
December 2007 and followed that by opening a Wellness Clinic in January 2011.
The two organizations combined to form Kansas City’s most comprehensive resource for pets and
their human companions.
2. Locations, Contacts, and Hours of Operation
Great Plains SPCA’s team is on duty 365 days a year to ensure that the pets are cared for
properly. The pets are always our first priority.
Independence Campus Adoptions
21001 E 78 Hwy, Independence, MO 64057
913-808-3370
[email protected]
Great Plains SPCA Volunteer Public Hours
Hours
Tuesday-Friday
7 am - 7 pm
12 pm - 7 pm
Saturday-Sunday
7 am - 6 pm
11 am – 6 pm
Monday
7 am – 6 pm
CLOSED
Independence Campus Lost Pet & Intake Center
21001 E 78 Hwy, Independence, MO 64057 816-783-5102
DOGS; 913-808-3383 CATS; 913-808-3378
[email protected]
Public Hours
Great Plains SPCA
Lost Pet Reclaim
Volunteer Hours
Public Hours
Intake
Appointment only
Tuesday-Friday
7 am - 7 pm
8 am – 7 pm
12 pm – 6 pm
Saturday-Sunday
7 am - 6 pm
10 am – 6 pm
CLOSED
Monday
7 am – 6 pm
8 am – 6 pm
12 pm – 6 pm
Merriam Pet Adoption Center
5424 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202
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913-742-7324
[email protected]
Great Plains SPCA Volunteer Public Hours
Hours
Monday & Tuesday
7 am - 7 pm
By Appointment ONLY
Wednesday-Friday
7 am - 6 pm
12 pm – 7 pm
Saturday-Sunday
7 am – 6 pm
11 am- 6 pm
Merriam Veterinary Care Center
5428 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202
913-808-3324
[email protected]
Great Plains SPCA
Volunteer Hours
Public Hours
Appointments
Required
Monday-Friday
7 am - 6 pm
7:30 am – 6 pm
Saturday
8 am – 3 pm
8 am – 3 pm
Sunday
8 am – 3 pm
CLOSED
Merriam Lost Pet & Intake Center
5424 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202
913-808-3347
[email protected]
Great Plains SPCA
Volunteer Hours
Monday-Friday
7 am - 7 pm
Saturday
7 am – 6 pm
Sunday
8 am – 6 pm
Public Hours
*By Appointment ONLY
Sunday, Monday &
Thursday
Great Plains SPCA is closed to the public on the following holidays:
New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day,
Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day
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Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for a shift on any of these holidays to help us care for the
pets.
Volunteer hours for any holiday will be communicated prior to the holiday. Typical hours for
holidays are 8 am to 5 pm.
3. Volunteer Role and Benefits
Our shelters are honored to provide a loving, safe, comfortable place for homeless animals to
become homebound. We serve thousands of animals in our shelter each year and rely on
volunteers to help animals in our care find their forever homes, as well as help provide each
animal with top-notch care during their stay.
The core work of this role involves:
 Working hands-on with shelter animals to provide socialization, exercise, clean and
comfortable quarters, stress reduction, and enrichment
 Promoting shelter animals for adoption by reinforcing adoptable behaviors
 Engaging potential adopters and guiding them accurately through the adoption process
Benefits of volunteering in this role:
 Make a direct positive impact on homeless animals in your community
 Enhance the lives of our shelter animals
 Work in partnership with a respected and reputable animal welfare organization
 Match volunteer activities to your skills and interests
 Play a part in the unique community of other fellow volunteers, animals, staff members
and adopters
 Increase your knowledge of animal behavior, animal handling skills and veterinary terms
and protocols
 Progress through a program that provides new responsibilities, new training and more
enriching and challenging volunteer experiences
 The unique bond between an animal in need and a caring human
 Document service hours and gain references for your resume or education
 Receive tax credit for your mileage to and from volunteer activities
4. Volunteer Requirements
Great Plains SPCA is committed to creating families and helping people of all ages experience
the true joy pets bring into our lives. The following opportunities are available to enrich the lives
of youth in our community.
4.a Age Requirements
Children 6-10 – Children between the ages of 6 and 10 are limited to volunteer opportunities
that do not involve contact with animals. Unfortunately, we do not have a space for safe
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interaction between our general shelter dogs and cats and young children. Children must be at
least 11 years old or older to volunteer in the dog and cat areas, and must have a parent or
guardian with them at all times. Young children are invited with their parents to visit the shelter
any time during open Adoptions hours. Each campus has several rooms with free-roaming cats,
and young children with their parents are welcome to interact with these cats as members of
the public while they gauge whether or not they would like to take the next step to become a
regular, committed volunteer. Families that want to volunteer must complete all steps including
the online volunteer application for each individual and completion by parents and children of
both New Volunteer Orientation, Cat or Dog 101 and Mentor Shift(s). Once all steps are
completed to become volunteers, families may volunteer as “Sparkle Crew.” Activities may
include laundry, washing and stuffing KONGs, adding sparkle to the shelter by organizing and
putting away donations and cleaning, yard work, and other special projects as assigned.
Children under the age of 11 are also encouraged to get involved by running donation drives
and fundraisers, as well as being a part of a foster family for an animal in need! Check out
our Pinterest boards for DIY dog toy and DIY cat toy projects, bake sale goods for animals,
and more! Please email [email protected] (Merriam Campus) or
[email protected] (Independence Campus) for more information.
Children 11-15 – Children between the ages of 11 and 15 are invited to work alongside their
parents to perform the activities outlined above along with the opportunity to enrich the lives
of kenneled cats and dogs. Parents and children must complete all necessary volunteer classes.
Parents must be in charge of opening kennels, handling the animals, and holding the leash, as
well as supervising their children. We ask that children remain by the door or outside the
kennel area while parents get dogs out of kennels, as the dogs can be very excited when we
first get them out. Parents and children may socialize with shelter cats in the various play
rooms. Parents must be mindful of pets who are timid or who have been marked with child
restrictions. These pets are not appropriate candidates for interaction with young children.
Ages 16 and older – Volunteers that are aged 16 and older may volunteer independently after
completing all necessary volunteer classes. Volunteers under the age of 18 must have a parent
or guardian sign a release and waiver of liability prior to working in the shelter.
4.b Commitment Requirements
A minimum of 4 hours per month for 3 months is required for new volunteers to be oriented,
trained, comfortable, and confident team members. If you are unable to make this
commitment, there are other wonderful ways to help out! For information on donation drives
and projects, visit http://www.greatplainsspca.org/donate/. You can also use social media to
share our adoptable animals, upcoming events, and more! These actions provide a huge
difference to the animals in our care!
4.c Certificate of Ability
Any volunteer or potential volunteer who is under the care of a doctor for either physical or
psychological treatment may be asked to provide a certificate from the doctor as to their ability
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to satisfactorily or safely perform their volunteer duties. Volunteers under the course of
treatment that might affect their volunteer work will not be accepted without written
verification of suitability from their doctor. Any volunteer who, after acceptance and assignment
by Great Plains SPCA, enters a course of treatment that might adversely impact the performance
of their duties should consult with their Volunteer Manager.
4.d Skill and Experience Requirements
While volunteers bring a variety of experience and skills to their roles, the following basic set of
skills and experience are helpful to fulfil your role as a volunteer. You may have developed
these from work, volunteering, or in your personal life.
 Basic knowledge of animal body language (we will teach you more!)
 Comfortable and competent handling of animals of various sizes, temperaments, and
needs safely both in and out of the kennel – we can work with limitations but we must be
aware of them!
 Recognize and work within any limitations you or the animal may have
 Good interpersonal and communication skills
 Attention to surroundings
 Willingness to be flexible and work on a team
 Ability to work without direct supervision
 Frequent walking, bending, stooping, squatting, lifting, and other physical demands
 Tolerance of loud noises and odors from cleaning agents and animal waste
 Tolerance of outdoor elements
5. Volunteer Policies
5.a Appropriate Attire.
Appropriate attire must be worn when working at the shelter or at offsite locations. This
consists of volunteer shirt (preferred) or other Great Plains SPCA branded shirt, volunteer name
badge, and closed-toe, rubber-soled shoes. Plain or other animal welfare-related shirts may be
worn with a volunteer name badge, only if the shirt does not identify them as representatives
of any other organization. When working with animals, long pants or capri-style pants are
strongly recommended. No dangling or hoop jewelry or loose clothing that could catch on
paws, claws, door handles, etc. Dress for volunteers handling animals should be casual and
practical but also tidy and clean. Certain volunteer jobs may require different or more
professional attire.
5.b Health and Safety
Safety is of primary importance for Great Plains and our volunteers. Please pay attention to the
following safety concerns.
 Wear appropriate attire.
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Do not try to carry a load that is too heavy for you. Practice proper lifting procedures
and ask for help when you need it.
During the summer months the heat index can be very high. If you are working outdoors
please recognize your limitations. Come in to rest and cool down.
During winter months, the wind chill can be very low. If you are working outdoors,
please recognize your limitations. Come in to rest and warm up.
You are strongly advised to update your tetanus vaccination and keep it current while
volunteering at the shelter.
5.c Disease Control
The following Great Plain SPCA health and disease control procedures must be followed at all
times. Be sure to properly sanitize your hands between handling each pet. Always clean up
feces immediately. When cleaning, follow the procedures provided in training. Briefly, they are:
 Disinfectant for kennels: Accel (accelerated hydrogen peroxide) is diluted 1:16 with
water and allowed to sit with wet contact for at least 5 minutes. Staff and trained
volunteers may dilute Accel in spray bottles and foamers.
 Disinfectant for laundry: add bleach (check for label as disinfectant, as some scented
bleaches do not have adequate disinfectant properties) to machine per instructions
5.d Accident Policy
Accidents that result in injury, including bites and scratches, regardless of how insignificant the
injury may appear, must be reported to the manager on duty immediately. Such reports are
necessary to help us monitor the health and wellbeing of our pets, and do not automatically
mean any negative consequence for the animal. There are first aid kits located in Reception and
Training areas.
Accident/incident reports can be obtained from the Receptionist. A report must be filled out
and signed by both the volunteer and a team member. We ask that all volunteers have current
immunization against tetanus.
As stated in the volunteer waiver you signed, you are assuming the risks of volunteering at
Great Plains SPCA. This includes work that may be hazardous to the volunteer, including, but
not limited to dog and/or cat handling, lifting heavy objects, bending, standing for extended
periods of time, exposure to cleaning chemicals and transportation to and from off-site events.
In your waiver, you expressly and specifically assumed the risk of injury or harm in the activities
and released Great Plains SPCA from all liability for injury, illness, death or property damage
resulting from the activities on or offsite Great Plains SPCA property.
5.e Visitors and Personal Guests
Visitors and guests are welcome to come for a detailed tour of the facility if prearranged with a
Volunteer Manager. Guests can accompany you in public areas. They will not be allowed to
handle animals alone and must be treated as a regular member of the public when viewing pets.
Please encourage friends and guests to become volunteers if interested!
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5.f Alcohol and Drug Policy
Great Plains SPCA is committed to providing a safe, efficient and productive environment for all
employees and volunteers. Using, possessing or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol at
the facility poses serious safety and health risks. While on Great Plains SPCA property and while
conducting business related activities off premises, no volunteer may use, possess, distribute,
sell or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
The legal use of prescribed drugs is permitted at the facility only if it does not impair a
volunteer’s ability to perform essential functions of the job effectively and in a safe manner
that does not endanger other individuals.
5.g Sexual and Other Unlawful Harassment
Great Plains SPCA is committed to providing an environment that is free from all forms of
discrimination and conduct that can be considered harassing, coercive, or disruptive, including
sexual harassment. Actions, words, jokes or comments based on an individual’s sex, race, color,
sexual preference, national origin, age, religion, disability, or any other legally protected
characteristic will not be tolerated and are grounds for termination of the volunteer
relationship.
Report it to your Volunteer Manager immediately if you experience or witness sexual or other
unlawful harassment in the workplace. If your Volunteer Manager is unavailable or you believe
it would be inappropriate to contact that person, you should immediately contact your Chief
Operating Officer. You can raise concerns and make reports without fear of reprisal or
retaliation. All allegations of sexual harassment will be quickly and discreetly investigated.
5.h Smoking.
Smoking is not permitted on Great Plains SPCA property, including in vehicles parked in our
parking lots. Smoking is never allowed while handling a Great Plains SPCA pet! This includes
while walking pets off Great Plains SPCA property.
6. Volunteer Supervision
Volunteers must take direction from the team member that oversees the area in which they are
assigned. Any concerns with assignments must be directed to the Volunteer Manager.
7. Discipline and Grievance
7.a Disciplinary Action
Possible grounds for disciplinary action may include but are not limited to the following: gross
misconduct or insubordination, being under the influence of or possession of alcohol or illegal
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drugs, theft, misuse of equipment or materials, abuse or mistreatment of pets, customers, staff
or other volunteers, failure to abide by policies and procedures, failure to meet physical or
mental standards of performance or failure to satisfactorily perform assigned duties.
Disciplinary action may include a private conversation with the Volunteer Manager and/or
other members of Leadership, probation and/or dismissal.
7.b Grievances
All grievances should be brought to the attention of your Volunteer Manager. If the issue is not
resolved and/or addressed by your Volunteer Manager, please see your Chief Operating
Officer.
7.c Dismissal
Volunteers who do not adhere to the rules and regulations of Great Plains
SPCA or who fail to satisfactorily perform volunteer duties may be subject to dismissal. Great
Plains SPCA reserves the right to dismiss a volunteer without warning in the case of gross
negligence or misconduct.
8. Scheduling and Sign-In Procedures
Scheduling volunteer hours is very flexible! The minimum commitment for volunteers is
4 hours per month for at least 3 months. These hours can be done at your convenience. Some
positions require scheduled shifts while others simply ask that you fulfill your minimum 4 hours
per month. In addition to this commitment, you are always welcome to volunteer during any
open volunteer hours without advance notice.
Electronic sign-in instructions are given after completion of New Volunteer Orientation. You will
sign in using the PIN assigned to you that can be found on your volunteer nametag. You must
sign in and out for all hours served.
You may also enter hours for off-site volunteer work or if you forget to sign in and out from
your Volgistics account
(http://www.greatplainsspca.org/volunteer/volunteer-login/). Log in using your email address
and the password you selected on your Volunteer Application.
We ask our volunteers to sign in and out for a few reasons:
● Grant Writing: Recording your hours enables us to track the number of hours donated
by our volunteers. This in turn helps us to obtain funding from various foundations.
● Safety: We need to know who is in the building in the event of an emergency.
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●
Quality use of your time: Staff can see that you are here if they need you without you
having to remain in that area. You can work as Dog Hero, Cat Hero, or Sparkle Crew until
you are needed for Meet n’ Greets, for example.
● Students: signing in and out lets us track students’ volunteer hours for projects,
scholarships, and college applications.
9. Non-Disclosure
The protection of confidential business information is vital to the interests and success of Great
Plains SPCA. Such confidential information includes, but is not limited to, the following
examples:
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Trade secrets or technical information
Computer processes
Customer lists
Adoption, volunteer and employment applications
Customer preferences
Marketing strategies
Event plans
Financial records
Volunteers who improperly use or disclose trade secrets or confidential business information
will be subject to termination of volunteer duties even if they do not actually benefit from the
disclosed information.
10. Social Media Statement for Volunteers
Great Plains SPCA takes no position on your decision to start or maintain a blog or participate in
other social networking activities. However, it is the right and duty of the organization to protect
itself from unauthorized disclosure of information and conduct contrary to the Mission. Great
Plains SPCA’s social networking policy includes rules and guidelines for company-authorized
social networking and personal social networking and applies to all executive officers, board
members, management, staff, and volunteers.
General Provisions
Blogging or other forms of social media or technology include but are not limited to video or
wiki postings, sites such as Facebook and Twitter, chat rooms, personal blogs, or similar forms
of online journals, diaries or personal newsletters not affiliated with Great Plains SPCA.
Unless specifically instructed by Executive Leadership, volunteers are not authorized and
therefore restricted to speak on behalf of Great Plains SPCA.
Volunteers may not use social media to represent Great Plains SPCA in any way contrary to our
Mission to save, protect, and improve the lives of animals while strengthening the bond
between pets and their human companions. This includes associating Great Plains SPCA in
name or otherwise with posts or pictures that could reasonably be interpreted by the public or
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otherwise as negative, derogatory or damaging. Prohibitions include, but are not limited to
tagging the organization or its employees on such posts or pictures; posting such remarks as to
damage Great Plains SPCA’s reputation in the community or relationships both external and
internal; or sharing or reposting such posts on pages or sites administered by Great Plains SPCA.
Volunteers may not publicly discuss clients, products, employees or any work-related matters,
whether confidential or not, outside company-authorized communications. Volunteers are
expected to protect the privacy of Great Plains SPCA and its employees, clients and volunteers
and are prohibited from disclosing personal employee and nonemployee information and any
other proprietary and nonpublic information to which volunteers have access. Such information
includes but is not limited to customer information, trade secrets, financial information and
strategic business plans.
Facebook
Volunteers may not use their personal or other Facebook accounts in any way prohibited as
described above.
Our private Facebook pages and groups are places for volunteers and staff to share constructive
information, talk about adoptions and success stories and discuss available animals that may
need extra attention. We also use them to inform you of changes, updates, or current needs.
Our Facebook pages are places for community and friendship, for volunteers and staff to share
laughs and stories. However, these groups are not intended for conversation about euthanasia,
policies, specifics of an animal’s medical care, or general complaints. To ensure effective and
accurate communication concerning topics of this nature, please direct questions, comments,
and concerns to a Volunteer Manager or the appropriate staff leadership in that department.
Be sure to request to join the following pages:
Great Plains SPCA Volunteers (ALL VOLUNTEERS)
GPSPCA Merriam CAT Volunteers (for Cat Heroes)
GPSPCA Merriam DOG Volunteers (for Dog Heroes)
GPSPCA Independence CAT Volunteers (for Cat Heroes)
GPSPCA Independence DOG Volunteers (for Dog Heroes)
11.Photo Release
Volunteers’ photographs, images, or likeness may be used in Great Plains SPCA’s marketing and
promotional materials.
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Thank you for your dedication and compassion for animals in need!
Welcome to the Great Plains SPCA team!
Please complete, sign, and return the last page of this document, the Release and Waiver of
Liability prior to volunteering. Thank you.
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Appendix A
Volunteer Code of Ethics
As a volunteer representing Great Plains SPCA, your conduct and interaction with team
members, other volunteers and the public is expected to always be professional and courteous.
By volunteering, you are making a commitment to our team and our pets to carry out, to the
best of your abilities, the tasks you have pledged to perform.
The Volunteer Code of Ethics clarifies the expectations and principals for Great Plains SPCA
volunteers. Should a volunteer display unprofessional, dishonest or disrespectful behavior or
exhibit a lack of self-discipline, the volunteer will be asked to leave the premises. Such behavior
could be grounds for termination of volunteer status.
As a Great Plains SPCA Volunteer I pledge to:
Respect
● Respect others even when I may not agree with them
● Display courtesy, sensitivity, consideration and compassion for people and animals
● Use good judgment in recognizing the scope of authority of team members
Safety
● Keep safety at the forefront of all volunteer activities
● Follow the guidelines presented to me during training and mentoring
● Respect and use equipment and supplies as they are intended
● Report all injuries immediately to a team member
Quality
● Perform all tasks to the best of my ability
● Ask for help when needed
● Recognize additional training is essential to maintain safe shelter practices and attend
trainings and meetings as they are offered
Self-Discipline
● Recognize my limitations and those of others
● Set boundaries for myself – know my limits both physically and otherwise
● Hold myself accountable for the commitments I undertake
Communication
● Direct questions, comments, concerns to the appropriate party
● Listen to the needs of others
● Recognize I communicate both verbally and non-verbally
● Advise personnel of relevant information regarding the animals in our care and my
involvement at the shelter Commitment
● Respect that the team and the animals count on me to honor my commitments
● Work together with team members and other volunteers to meet Great Plains
SPCA’s goals
Welfare
● Value my role in the maintenance and growth of the organization
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●
●
Strive to promote a positive environment
Respect and support all people and animals
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Appendix B
Volunteer Opportunities at Great Plains SPCA
Volunteering at Great Plains SPCA is more than just an opportunity to work with the animals in
our care. It is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to provide a higher quality of life for the
animals in our community through adoption, education, services, and collaboration with our
animal welfare community. One of the most important aspects of the Great Plains SPCA
volunteer program is the diversity of responsibilities that volunteers undertake on a daily basis.
Volunteers are essential to our mission to save, protect, and improve the lives of animals while
strengthening the relationship between pets and their human companions.
Most volunteers begin their time as Dog Heroes and Cat Heroes as they get to know the
organization, the animals, and themselves. If and when you are interested in other volunteer
placements, please contact your Volunteer Manager.
Placement
While we do our best to match your skills and interests with our organizational needs, we
cannot guarantee a particular position will become or remain available. We will provide training
as needed and as we are able.
See your Volunteer Manager for detailed Job Descriptions as well as a comprehensive list of
opportunities. Following are brief introductions to most needed and most popular
assignments:
Opportunities Available at Both Locations:
Adoption Advocates

Adoption Advocate
 Facilitate great matches between adopters and animals
 Explain medical and behavioral history, adoption guidelines
 Counsel adopter on responsible pet ownership
Prerequisites: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class, Meet n’ Greet Class, Match Making Class
(can be completed following placement in Adoptions department), 4 hour working
interview/shadowing session, placement by Adoption Supervisor/Manager

Bio Writer
 Write short bios for animals’ online profiles
Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager

Follow-up Adoption Calls
 Help facilitate family bonding with recently adopted animals by calling adopters
and directing them toward additional resources if needed
Prerequisite: Cat 101 and/or Dog 101 Class, Placement by Adoptions Supervisor/Manager
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
Meet n’ Greet
 Introduce public to shelter pets
 Answer prospective adopter’s questions
 Help facilitate great matches for forever homes
Prerequisites: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class, Meet n’ Greet Class OR Match Making Class
*2 hours of Meet n’ Greet job shadowing may substitute for class requirement

Shutterbug & Photo Assistants
 Take portraits of our animals to showcase on their profiles
 Fetch and pose animals who need photos for professional photographers
 Upload or email web-ready photos
Prerequisite: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class, Placement by Adoption Manager

Videographer

Take short videos for animals’ online profiles
Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager
Around the Shelter
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Sparkle Crew
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Help our facilities sparkle! Help with laundry, dishes, organizing and putting away
donations, and more.
Contribute to and maintain a clean and comfortable environment
Practice good sanitation and disease prevention
Sweep and mop floors
Organize garage and supplies
Help with facility maintenance and landscaping
Do laundry
Prerequisite: New Volunteer Orientation, Release and Waiver of Liability
Cat Opportunities

Cat Hero

Work hands-on with shelter cats to provide socialization, exercise, clean and
comfortable quarters, stress reduction, and enrichment

Engage potential adopters and guide them accurately through the process from
“just looking” to “Meet n’ Greet” during open Adoptions hours
 Practice good sanitation and disease prevention
Prerequisite: Cat 101 Class
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Minimum 20 hours served in Adoptions before handling animals in Cat Holding or at Lost Pet
Center. See your Volunteer Manager before handling these cats.
Note: Volunteers may NOT interact with animals placed on Bite Quarantine with VERY FEW
exceptions made by management.


Cat Hero Mentor
 Engage newer volunteers and guide them in safe cat interaction

Provide tour and hands-on practice

Demonstrate how to sign in and out using PIN; how to sign up for shifts and log
hours from home using volunteer log in

Meet with new volunteers for one-on-one sessions as needed
Prerequisite: Cat 101 and 30 hours Cat Hero, Placement by Volunteer Manager
Cat Groom Team

Help cats and kittens make a great first impression to prospective adopters by trimming
nails, sponge/washcloth bathing soiled areas of the body, and brushing, bathing, clipping
as needed
Prerequisites: Cat 101 Class, Placement by Volunteer Manager if trimming, clipping, or
bathing
In the Community

HERO and Outreach

Travel the streets with our team to ensure animals in our community have food,
veterinary care, shelter, and other needs met
Prerequisite: Placement by Outreach Coordinator

Humane Education Support

Assist with Great Plains SPCA’s Young Heroes for Pets day camps

Facilitate shelter tours for groups of children

Present to schools and groups offsite – who are the animals in our care, what do they
need from us, and how can youth help?
Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager

Mobile Events
 Engage the community to promote awareness of Great Plains SPCA
 Transport and handle adoptable animals at events
 Transport and set up table or booth with promotional materials
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Prerequisite: Dog 101 and/or Cat 101 Class (if animal handling required) Placement by
Volunteer Manager & Development Department

Trap, Neuter, Return

Trap feral and free-roaming cats and transport them to our facilities for spay/neuter
surgery
Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager
Dog Opportunities

Canine Care Support Team

This is a hands-on, direct care position in Dog Adoptions. By providing essential, routine
care during the days and evenings, the Canine Care Support Team enables staff to focus
on early morning care and daily enrichment for all dogs in Dog Adoptions and Dog
Holding.
 Provide dogs on the Adoption floor with professional, conscientious, compassionate
care, meeting physical and behavioral needs
 Handle dogs of all sizes, ages, temperaments and needs safely and appropriately.
 Follow and maintain excellent knowledge of organization cleaning, sanitation, and
disease prevention protocols in order to provide a safe, clean environment for all
Prerequisite: Minimum of 30 Dog Hero hours Dog 201 and placement by Shelter Director/
or Animal Care Manager

Dog Hero

Work hands-on with shelter dogs to provide socialization, exercise, clean and
comfortable quarters, stress reduction, and enrichment
 Promote shelter dogs for adoption by reinforcing adoptable behaviors (all four on the
floor, sit before getting out of kennel, calm greeting, loose leash walking, etc.)
 Engage potential adopters and guide them accurately through the process from
 “just looking” to “Meet n’ Greet” during open Adoptions hours
 Practice good sanitation and disease prevention
Prerequisite: Dog 101 Class
Minimum 30 hours served in Adoptions before handling animals in Dog Holding or at Lost
Pet Center. See your Volunteer Manager before handling these dogs.
Note: Volunteers may NOT interact with animals placed on Bite Quarantine with VERY
FEW exceptions made by management.

Dog Hero Mentor
 Engage newer volunteers and guide them in safe dog handling

Provide tour and hands-on practice
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

Demonstrate how to sign in and out using PIN; how to sign up for shifts and log
hours from home using volunteer log in

Meet with new volunteers for one-on-one sessions as needed
Dog 101 and 30 hours Dog Hero, Placement by Volunteer Manager
Dog Groom Team

Help animals make a great first impression to prospective adopters by bathing, brushing,
and even trimming or clipping
Prerequisites: Dog 101 Class, Dog Mentor Shift, Placement by Volunteer Manager if
trimming or clipping
Veterinary Clinic

Vet Clinic Support x Tasks include cleaning, providing TLC care for cats in Vet Clinic,
scrubbing surgical instruments and making surgery packs, other tasks as assigned
Prerequisites: 30+ hours of volunteer service, application to Vet Clinic leadership,
interview, 4-hour training, placement by Veterinary Clinic Manager
Independence Specific Opportunities
Admissions

Admissions Assistant

To provide prompt and exceptional service to all members of the public who call
the Admissions department

Pull messages and return phone calls, connect member of the public with appropriate
information, resources, or staff member when needed
 Keep accurate records of messages pulled and returned, including dates and times for
all calls
 Edit and upload photos to animals’ profiles
 Keep Admissions area neat and organized
 Assist with other tasks as assigned by Admissions Staff
Prerequisite: Placement by Admissions Manager/Intake Supervisor

Lost Pet Hero
 Photograph animals on stray hold and upload to appropriate sites
 Respond to Lost Pet Inquiries
Prerequisite: Placement by Admissions Manager/ Intake Supervisor
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
Receptionist

Provide prompt and exceptional service to Great Plains SPCA customers who visit or
call to inquire about shelter services and programs.

Actively engage members of the public from the moment they arrive or call, assist and
answer any questions; connect member of the public with appropriate staff member
when needed






Manage any queue of public waiting for Meet n’ Greets or Adoptions
Pull and return phone calls
Keep reception area neat and organized
Assist in the cleaning and care of any animals in the reception area
Use computer to look up animal information, create kennel cards and signs, and more
Assist with other tasks as assigned by Staff Receptionist
Prerequisite: 4-hour working interview/shadowing session, Placement by Reception
Supervisor and Volunteer Manager
Merriam Specific Opportunities
Dog Wash Team




Meet every other Wednesday at 9:00 at the PAC to transport dogs to U-Wash-Puppy at
75th and Nieman
Bathe and socialize dogs
Return dogs to the PAC following the wash
May additionally wash dogs in the PAC’s wash tub
Veterinary Client Services Advocate
 Answer phone calls and schedule public appointments at our Veterinary Care
Center in Merriam






Help main desk with check in and pick up of animals receiving veterinary cars
Prepare surgery packs
Clean and sterilize instruments
Transport pets to specialists for appointments
Make reminder calls for veterinary appointments
Perform administrative tasks, including preparing and filing folders and entering data
into programs
Prerequisite: Placement by Volunteer Manager, Veterinary Care Clinic Manager, Client
Services interview and related training
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Appendix C
Volunteer Communication
We always strive to communicate effectively with our volunteers. Because we are fortunate to
have a large volunteer base, we ask that you use the following guidelines to ensure accurate,
effective, and timely communication:
 Face to face is best! We maintain the expectation of ourselves and of you that face-toface interaction be respectful and constructive. Sometimes this may mean scheduling
another time to talk more in-depth in order to fulfill our duties to the animals in our
care.
 Campus Updates/Bi-Weekly Newsletters– brief newsletters detailing current specials,
shelter needs, updates or changes in programs or policies, upcoming classes and events,
Volunteer of the Month recognition, etc. both organization-wide and campus-specific
 Direct email – each staff member has an email address and is expected to check email
each work day. We encourage you to contact staff directly by email, especially with any
questions or issues that are not appropriate to post in a Facebook group. You may also
exchange email addresses with fellow volunteers.
 Phone – each member of leadership has either a desk phone, a cell phone, or both.
Phone numbers are available on business cards, in the staff phone directory found in
Reception at each location, and on our website. We encourage you to contact staff
directly by phone during business hours, especially with anything sensitive or timesensitive.
 Facebook volunteer groups – please see “Facebook” under the Social Media Statement
for Volunteers. We encourage you to take part in these wonderful, helpful groups!
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Appendix D
Adoption and Receiving Process
Receiving Center Procedures
● Lost pets are brought to each facility by city animal control or by concerned citizens who
befriend a lost pet. Drop off must be authorized by the animal control agency in the city
where the pet was found.
● Animals are vaccinated, heartworm or FIV/FeLV tested, dewormed, microchipped, and
receive flea treatment and preventative, and dogs receive heartworm preventative on
intake.
● Lost pets are held at our facilities for a time that is determined by each city. The time
ranges from three to ten days. During this time, lost pets are routinely checked against
missing pet reports filed by concerned owners. In addition, they are evaluated for
general health and temperament.
● At the end of the required holding time, lost pets are processed for adoption. This
includes a medical evaluation, spay or neuter surgery if not already altered, rabies
vaccine, and behavior evaluation. Some animals may require or benefit from time with a
foster family (see Foster Program on page 22) before being placed on the Adoption
floor. If an animal is deemed not an adoption candidate due to low quality of life with
grim prognosis (medically or behaviorally) or unsafe to place in the public, he or she will
be humanely euthanized.
● Pets which are no longer able to be cared for by their owners are accepted on a space
available basis.
● Euthanasia is always an emotional topic of discussion, and we are always willing to
discuss an individual case with you. Any questions or concerns regarding euthanasia
should be brought directly to the Volunteer Managers and not discussed with other
volunteers or team members.
Adoption Procedures
●
All animals are spayed or neutered prior to adoption. Exceptions are made only for
medical reasons.
● Pets determined to be in good health and of sound temperament are housed in the
Merriam Pet Adoption Center or Adoptions areas of the Independence campus.
● All adoptions go through a conversational interview process and must be approved by
Adoptions Staff. The adoption survey gives a profile of prospective adopters’ needs and
expectations.
● While the majority of applications are approved for adoptions, the following are
examples of placements that are unacceptable to Great Plains SPCA:
○ Pets that will be permitted to run loose
○ Pets used for fighting, exploitation, or consumption
○ Pets used exclusively for utility purposes such as attack dogs, guard dogs or
mousers (cats)
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○ Pets who will live exclusively outdoors, though exceptions can be made and must
be approved by management
○ Pets who have been determined to be predominantly of a breed banned by the
prospective adopter’s city or landlord
Trained Adoptions Counselors, either staff or volunteer, will approve or deny adoptions in the
best interest of the animal. They may redirect prospective adopters toward a more appropriate
match in the event of unrealistic expectations or other concerns.
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Appendix E
Foster Program
At Great Plains SPCA, the foster care program is comprised of a very special group of volunteers
who lovingly open their homes to pets in need. Foster parents care for pets with special needs
that are better met in a home environment rather than the shelter. Most pets that we place in
foster care are considered adoptable; they just need a little help getting there. This may mean
a variety of things including:
● Mom is expecting or nursing a litter of puppies or kittens
● Puppies or kittens with no mom that need hand feeding
● Weaned puppies or kittens that are too young to be adopted
● Dogs or cats that are very shy and need special socializing
● Animals recovering from injury or illness
● Animals awaiting or recovering from surgery
● Any number of other situations that may occur!
Foster parents can also be called on in certain situations when the main area of Great Plains
SPCA is full and there is an emergency. The length of time involved in foster varies from case to
case. Some pets will only need to be in a home for a few days.
Young kittens or puppies may need a couple months in foster care.
In most cases, you will bring your foster pet back to the shelter for adoption. There are many
variables that affect every foster care case. The team at Great Plains SPCA, and the network of
other foster parents you are joining, is here to help whenever you need it.
If you are interested in joining our foster network please complete a Foster Application, found on
our website.
Practical Requirements of Fostering
Foster parents provide a greatly needed service for Great Plains SPCA. There is always a need
for more families willing to help animals in need. The pets that go into foster care are the ones
that need the most assistance. In most cases, going into foster care saves the life of the pet or
pets in question. Fostering pets can be a very rewarding experience, but it takes a special kind
of person to do it. Great Plains SPCA reserves the right to place foster pets in the best foster
home at their discretion for the specific case in question.
All foster parents must:
● Be 18 years of age or older.
● All owned pets must be altered, vaccinated and compatible with foster pets.
● Either own their own home or have a rental lease allowing pets. Most landlords will
require you to pay all pet deposits and pet rent.
● If a Kansas resident, receive a state shelter license ($10 filing fee).
● Provide a safe, loving and stable environment for the foster pet(s).
28 | P a g e
●
Commit to the time needed for the specific foster case in question. Additionally, you
must be able to set time aside each day for socialization, training and for interactive play
and exercise.
● Be able to administer prescribed medication and/or treatment as directed.
● Be willing to learn! Experience with animal behavioral or medical issues is a plus but is
by no means required. Great Plains SPCA is prepared to equip you with the knowledge
and tools necessary for any foster case we ask you to take.
● Be able to transport your foster pet to and from Great Plains SPCA for all medical needs,
including routine vaccinations, during business hours as requested or required.
Foster Parents are also strongly encouraged to attend the Foster Parent Prep Course, Foster
101.
Emotional Requirements of Fostering
Aside from the practical requirements, there is also a big emotional part to being a foster
parent. In nearly every situation, you will have to say goodbye to your foster at some point. In
the happiest situation, they will be finding their lifelong caring home. You will always be able
to help another pet by fostering again.
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Appendix F
Euthanasia Hold
The decision to euthanize an animal is never taken lightly and always involves more than one
member of leadership. Great Plains SPCA’s President and CEO must approve all euthanasia
decisions. This difficult decision is only made in the best interest of the animal. Once a decision
is made, action will be taken quickly – the purpose is to end and prevent further suffering, and
we will not prolong it unnecessarily.
Any volunteer or staff member may place or ask to have placed in PetPoint a hold on an animal
called “No Euthanasia.”
• Hold must have volunteer/staff name and phone number. Example: “Please
contact Rachel Bracken if euthanasia is ever considered. 913-808-3397”
• If euthanasia is considered, staff will contact the individual. That person will have
the following choices (the first two may or may not be appropriate for an
individual case; again, we will make that decision in the best interest of the
animal):
• Adopt the animal
• Foster the animal with the understanding that euthanasia may be the end result
• Be present for the euthanasia
• Say good-bye
• If an animal is in a medical emergency and needs to be euthanized immediately,
individuals with “No Euth” holds will be notified as soon as possible.
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Animal Welfare Contact List
The Humane Society of Greater Kansas City
5545 Parallel PKWY, Kansas City, KS, 66202 (913)596-1000
The Lawrence Humane Society
1605 E 119th St, Lawrence, KS, 66044
(785)843-6835
KCK Animal Shelter
3301 Park Dr, Kansas City, KS, 66211 (913)321-1445
Heart of America Humane Society
P.O. Box 12703
Overland Park, KS, 66282
1(800)384-3143
Prairie Paws
3173 Highway 68, Ottawa, KS, 66067 (785)242-2967
Geary Co. Animal Shelter
2424 N. Jackson St, Junction City, KS, 66046 (785)238-1359
T. Russell Reitz Animal Shelter
605 Levee Dr, Manhattan, KS,66502 (785)587-2783
Helping Hands Humane Society
5720 SW 21st, Topeka, KS, 66604
(785)233-7325
Humane Society High Plains
2050 Old Hwy 40, Hays, KS
(785)625-5252
Friends of Parkville
1356 Mo-9, Kansas City, MO, 64152 (816)587-0918
A.W.O.L. Humane Society
116 S. 23, Independence, MO, 67301 (620)331-7931
GPSPCA Independence Location
21001 E. MO 78 HWY, Independence, MO, 64057 (913)808-3372
Wayside Waifs
3901 Martha Truman Rd, Kansas City, MO, 64137 (816)761-8151
Kansas City Pet Project
4400 Raytown Rd, Kansas City, MO, 64129 (816)513-9821
Olathe Animal Control Shelter
505 East Sunvale Dr., Olathe, KS, (913) 971-6362
H.E.L.P Humane Society
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511 Main St, Belton, MO, 64012 (816)318-4357
Gladstone Animal Shelter
4000 NE 67 St, Gladstone, MO, 64118 (816)436-1810
Animal Control
Bonner Springs (913)422-7676
Gardner (913)856-7312
Fairway (913)782-0720
KCMO (816)513-9821
Lake Quivira (913)787-2625
Lawrence (785)843-6835
Leawood (913)642-5555
Lenexa (913)477-7385
Merriam (913)322-5560
Mission (913)782-0720
Overland Park (913)895-6300
Olathe (913)971-6362
Parks Department (913)438-7275
Prairie Village (913)381-6464
Roeland Park (913)782-0720
Shawnee (913)631-2150
Westwood (913)782-0720
Wyandotte (913)321-1445
General Rescue Groups
Unleashed Pet Rescue
5918 Broadmoor St, Mission, KS, 66202 (913)831-7387
Animal’s Best Friends
2302 Chrysler Ave, Independence, MO, 64051 (816)254-8664
Second Chance
P.O. Box 964, Smithville, MO, 64089
(913)814-7471
Safe Harbor Prison Dog program
(913)634-5955
LL Dog Rescue
(816)926-0241
T.A.R.A.’s Dream
www.tarasdream.org
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Emergency Veterinary Clinic
Blue Pearl
11950 W. 110 St, Overland Park, KS, 66212 (913)642-9563
Blue Pearl
139 NE 91 St, Kansas City, MO 64155, (816)759-5016
Mission Med Vet
5914 Johnson Drive, Mission, KS, 66202 (913)722-5566
Animal Emergency Center
8141 N Oak Traffic way, Kansas City, MO 64118 (816)455-5430
Cat Specific Rescues
Animal In Need Cat Adoptions
2520 NW Vivion Rd, Riverside, MO, 64151
Kitty City
12800 Santa Fe Trail Dr, Lenexa, KS, 66215 (913)971-0101
Assisi Safe Haven for Cats
(913)727-2874
Purrrfect Pets
(913)652-6677
KC Siamese Rescue
(816)331-9700
Cat Association of Topeka
(785)272-4735
Diva pets
(816)589-6994
Greycat Adoptions
(816)517-2901
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Release and Waiver of Liability
This Release and Waiver of Liability (the "Release") executed on___________(DATE), by _________________________(the
"Volunteer") in favor of Great Plains SPCA, their directors, officers, employees, and agents (collectively "Great Plains SPCA").
The Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant hereby freely, voluntarily, and without duress executes the Release under the
following terms:
RELEASE AND WAIVER. Volunteer or the parent/guardian does hereby release and forever discharge and hold harmless Great Plains SPCA
and its successors and assigns from any and all liability, claims, and demands of whatever kind or nature either in law or in equity, which
arise or may hereafter arise from Volunteer's Activities with Great Plains SPCA. Volunteer understands that this Release discharges Great
Plains SPCA from any liability or claim that the volunteer may have against Great Plains SPCA with respect to any bodily injury, personal
injury, illness, death, or property damage that may result from Volunteer's activities with Great Plains SPCA, whether caused by
negligence of Great Plains SPCA, or its officers, directors, employees, or agents or otherwise. Volunteer also understands that Great Plains
SPCA does not assume any responsibility for or obligation to provide financial assistance or other assistance, including but not limited to
medical, health or disability insurance in the event of injury or illness.
MEDICAL TREATMENT. Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant does hereby release and forever discharge Great Plains SPCA
from any claim whatsoever which arises or may hereafter arise on account of any first aid, treatment, or service rendered in connection
with the Volunteer's Activities with Great Plains SPCA.
ASSUMPTION OF THE RISK. The Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant understands the Activities include work that may be
hazardous to the Volunteer, including, but not limited to dog and/or cat handling, lifting heavy objects, bending, standing for extended
periods of time, exposure to cleaning chemicals and transportation to and from off-site events. Volunteer hereby expressly and
specifically assumes the risk of injury or harm in the Activities and releases Great Plains SPCA from all liability for injury, illness, death, or
property damage resulting from the Activities on or offsite Great Plains SPCA property.
INSURANCE. The Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant understands that, except as otherwise agreed to by Great Plains
SPCA in writing; Great Plains SPCA does not carry or maintain health, medical, or disability insurance coverage for any Volunteer. Each
Volunteer is expected and encouraged to obtain his or her own medical or health insurance coverage.
OTHER. Volunteer or the parent/guardian of the participant expressly agrees that this Release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as
permitted by laws of the State of Missouri and Kansas, and that this Release shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the
laws of the State of Missouri and Kansas. Volunteer agrees that in the event that any clause or provision of the Release shall be held to be
invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity of such clause or provision shall not otherwise affect the remaining
provisions of this Release which shall continue to be enforceable.
I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE READ AND FULLY UNDERSTAND THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE FORGOING VOLUNTEER
AGREEMENT AND VOLUNTEER RELEASE AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY AND THAT I WILL COMPLY WITH THE SAME.
I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I HAVE RECEIVED A Great Plains SPCA VOLUNTEER MANUAL AND I AGREE TO FOLLOW
THE POLICIES, PROCEDURES, AND CODE OF CONDUCT OUTLINED WITHIN. I UNDERSTAND THAT BY NOT FOLLOWING THE POLICIES,
PROCEDURES, AND CODE OF CONDUCT, I MAY BE SUBJECT TO IMMEDIATE TERMINATION.
Volunteer Signature ________________________________ Date ____________
Volunteer Printed Name__________________________________
Parent/ Guardian Signature (For Volunteers under 18 years of age) ______________________________
Street Address ______________________ City_________________ State _____Zip code____________
Phone Number __________________________Email_________________________________________