The sanctuary limited staff so our volunteers are an integral part of the operation. Would you like to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience while making a real difference in the lives of rescued animals? We need you!!

Working with wild animals is a very gratifying and unique experience, please read the following before applying:

• The safety of the animals and the humans that care for them comes first at our facility.
• If a wild animal bites or scratches you, it immediately places the welfare of the animal and the entire sanctuary at risk.
• Our program focuses on the importance of professional management of captive wild animals and does not promote private ownership of wild animals.
• This program does not include physical contact with potentially dangerous animals residing at our facility through the wire or in any other way.
• These animals are not pets. If you are looking for an opportunity that offers direct contact with animals you should consider working with domestic animals.
• Only the Forest Animal Rescue staff is authorized to have physical contact and that will be done in a safe manner and only for the purposes of veterinary care and proper husbandry. The only exception is if the animal is safely contained or anesthetized for veterinary care – then all trained staff, interns and volunteers are allowed to participate in and/or observe the veterinary care,
• Any and all violations of this policy will be cause for immediate dismissal from the program and removal from the property.
• Due to insurance reasons and the welfare of the animals, there are no exceptions to this policy. 

Job Description:

All volunteers will undergo training on safety procedures and will be trained and supervised by a senior volunteer or intern with assistance from management as needed.

You will be exposed to significant levels of heat and humidity and required to do physical work outdoors. You must be reasonably physically fit, able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, and able to work outdoors in the Florida climate.

After orientation, volunteers will be required to abide by and follow all rules and procedures set out by management. Non-compliance with the sanctuary rules and procedures will result in immediate program termination.

Volunteers will have the opportunity to learn all activities involved with the proper care and management of wild animals in captivity.

Duties include but are not limited to:

• Prepare primate and bat food, this includes sorting, cleaning, and cutting fruits and vegetables according to strict dietary requirements. Distribute food to the animals.
• Assist in preparing omnivore and carnivore diets and food distribution.
• Assist in cleaning animal habitats and pools.
• General cleaning and organizing activities involved with feeding and general care for the animals.
• Assist with habitat construction and maintenance, learning about captive wildlife safety and caging requirements.
• Assist in general grounds maintenance and repairs
• Assist in general animal enrichment activities thereby learning how to ensure a better quality of life for all animals residing at the sanctuary.
• Assist in general administrative duties related to animal care and sanctuary procedures and other activities as appropriate.

There are THREE volunteer programs available

1. Local, Part-time volunteers (you live locally)
2. Residential, Full-time volunteers (you pay in advance for lodging and meals and volunteer full-time)
3. Alternative Break groups (part of a University or other group that wishes to volunteer on a project)