Help for Volunteers

• Shift length: Some roles (like the Welcome Desk or Welcome Greeters) are needed at the beginning of the event, while others (like Clean-Up Crew) are needed later in the day. Many of our roles are needed for most of the day, while others have shorter timeframes.

• Location: We offer lots of choices, whether you prefer to be outdoors or indoors (depending on the route and venue at your location). Make sure you take a look at our clothing advice too, depending on the role you choose.

• Total Needed: This number, unique to each role, will tell you how many of each position are needed in your location. Different locations can have vastly different needs!

• After you register: As soon as you click the Submit button, you'll receive a confirmation email outlining all of the information you've provided to us. Then, expect to hear directly from the Event Director/Volunteer Leader in your location, who will give you more details on volunteering in your specific Steps for Pets location, and may communicate your role assignment as well (some locations will wait until a bit closer to SFP Day before assigning roles - your Director/Leader will let you know).

Before SFP Day

In the lead-up to SFP Day, expect to hear once or twice from your Director/Leader with any last-minute details about your role. Prepare to arrive in time for training at your location (check your Location page for the address to your start/finish venue).

On SFP Day

When you arrive, check in at the Welcome Desk (this should be near the entrance and indicated with a sign), then proceed to your training area - the Welcome Desk will direct you. Your Leader will then give you all of the equipment and instructions needed for your volunteer role - be sure to ask any questions you might have. If you have an offsite role (like Route Marshal or Sweep Vehicle/Driver), you'll be given a cellphone contact list should you need anything during your shift.

Then, the fun of the Steps for Pets really begins! Look forward to meeting a lot of happy walkers and pets, and some great new friends on your volunteer team. As your shift ends, be sure to check in one final time with your Leader before you go. They'll want to thank you, maybe give you a giant bear hug, and will remind you to grab some food before you leave!

Lots of volunteers fundraise ... you can too!

If you're volunteering in SFP, it's likely that you care (a lot) about our cause - the care and support of animals. Did you know that you can collect donations from family and friends, even if you're volunteering and not walking? Here's how:

• First, sign up as a volunteer.

• Then, you'll need to register for a FundHub account if you were registering to be a walking participant with us.

• Fill in the form with the required personal information. When you get to your route selection, select "I'm volunteering, but still wanted to raise funds!"

• At the end of registration, we'll email you the link to your online fundraising page, and you'll be good to go. You can then ask friends and family to give to you online - simply email the link to your page to them. Or, download a paper Donation Form here and collect cash or cheque donations in person. Remember that the event itself is cashless, so any cash donations must be paid in through FundHub with your own credit card.

Do I need to have previous experience to volunteer in Steps for Pets?

Beginners welcome! The majority of the volunteer positions available do not require any previous volunteer experience. To volunteer at Registration, we do prefer volunteers with some experience handling money (retail, banking, etc.)

How old do you have to be to volunteer?

You must be 13 years old to volunteer with us - though in some cases, we do allow younger volunteers to serve, accompanied by a parent at all times. All youth volunteers need a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.

How do I sign up for a volunteer shift?

It’s easy! Click here to sign up online.

Can I volunteer with a friend or group?

Yes! On the registration form on the next page, there is a space you can fill in if there is a particular person or group you'd like to serve with.

Can I earn volunteer hours for my high school by volunteering?

Yes - contact your Event Director if you have a form they need to complete.

Who can I contact with questions about accessibility at SFP?

Visit your location page and contact your local Event Director with questions about accessibility at your specific location.

How do I make changes to my volunteer application?

Email us at info@bluesea.org if you need to make any edits to the information you supply during volunteer registration, or contact your Event Director.

I’ve registered to volunteer, but haven't heard back from anyone - what do I do?

Contact your local Event Director - and be sure to check your email's junk/spam folder first to see if their email to you got caught in a filter.

Can I bring my pet with me when I volunteer?

You sure can! Take a quick peek at our Pet Guidelines before you come.

Is there a coat or bag check for me to leave my personal belongings?

Some locations may offer this for volunteers, but check with your Event Director to see what is available at your particular venue.

During SFP, your local Event Director will be in contact with you and manage your experience well, but if you need to contact us directly, please do!

• Contact your local Event Director using the details on your Location page.

• General questions? Contact our Head Office.