Martin Luther King Jr. Day: National Day of Service

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is also recognized as National Day of Service, and while we are closed to the public on this holiday, it marks the perfect time to recognize the dedication and service that our volunteers provide the community year round.





Our volunteers are the backbone of the Richmond SPCA. From helping pets at our humane center thrive to supporting our staff, we can always count on them to have our back. Our volunteers help in many ways — they provide enrichment and care to the pets we shelter, foster homeless pets in need, assist behind the scenes to ensure every pet has clean, soft bedding available, clean dishes to eat and drink out of, clean toys to play with, and an overall healthy and sanitary environment. They also assist with fundraising by helping at our lifesaving events or by hosting information tables throughout the community bringing awareness to our programs and sharing our vital resources with the community.






Our volunteers help not only our pets but also the people working at our humane center. The clerical tasks they perform include assembling adoption kits and admissions folders, writing thank-you notes to both donors and adopters, and assisting with various organizing projects. Our veterinary teams also receive volunteer support with sterilizing instruments for surgery, cleaning and filing.





Whether the task is big or small, every action our volunteers take leaves a lasting impact. As Dr. King wrote in Strength to Love, published in 1963, “No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.” Here at the Richmond SPCA, we are incredibly grateful for those who open their hearts and dedicate their time to assist in the work of caring for vulnerable animals. We cannot thank our volunteers and community members enough for working tirelessly to support our furry friends, their guardians and our staff. We wouldn’t be the organization we are without them.










Getting involved
Though we are not accepting new volunteers at this time, we encourage those who are interested in getting involved to check back for updates. In the meantime, there are many other ways to support our mission.
Hold a donation drive. Pet food donations stock our Pet Pantry. This is a vital resource for people who need help feeding their pets. Donated supplies help keep dogs and cats in homes with the people who love them. We also have a wish list of items needed to accomplish our work. Please contact Katie DeSanto to start your donation drive.
Assist at a signature event. In March we will host our 23rd Annual Dog Jog, 5K and Block Party. Volunteer opportunities associated with this event include guest registration, helping in our Kids’ Fun Zone, event set up and clean up. To be added to our event volunteer contact list, email us.
Become a foster care provider. Giving a temporary home to kittens, puppies, dogs and cats helps to prepare these pets for adoption. Learn more about our Meet the Fosters program.
Host a volunteer group. We offer group service dates for businesses, schools, clubs and other organizations looking to support our mission. Learn more about group volunteer opportunities.