We are a volunteer-based organization and rely on our volunteers to maintain and operate our rescue (located on 925 E Ogden Ave, Milwaukee), provide care for our fosters cats, educate the community, participate in events, and fill other crucial skills-based roles to successfully operate our organization, .
Our volunteers love the fulfillment of helping cats and finding them a forever home.
We understand that life can get busy and for opportunities that involve being at the rescue (cleaning/open house) or in the community (events, outreach), you can sign up for shifts that fit into your schedule. Opportunities such as grant writing, foster & marketing can done remotely.
Check out our opportunities and fill out an application. We are looking forward to having you on our team.
We are looking for volunteers who can make a commitment to volunteering at least 6 hours a month (either at the rescue, at events or virtually - like grant writers or soliciting for donations. Some volunteer positions require a regular, consistent schedule; others do not)
Volunteers must be at least 12 years old and anyone age 12 - 17 must volunteer along side a parent or other adult guardian during every shift
We ask that volunteers have an email account that they routinely check and be able to access the internet for training and scheduling.
Complete orientation and shadow volunteers in your area of interest.
Volunteer Requirements
Commit to attending your scheduled volunteer shifts. If you are unable to attend your schedule shift, letting the volunteer coordinator know ahead of time
Must be able to squat, bend, twist, lift and stand for periods of time when working directly with the cats in our care or at events
Be able to work well with people - all volunteer positions work directly with other volunteers and the public.
Be able to handle cats safely and compassionately.
Must be able to take seek direction and have a self-motivated work ethic
Ability to work independently
General knowledge about kitten and cat care is preferred but will be taught as needed
Board Positions
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As our Passive Fundraising Coordinator, you'll lead creative fundraising efforts that allow supporters to donate just by eating, shopping, or attending local events—no direct selling required.
You'll build and promote partnerships with businesses, restaurants, and ethical "purchase-with-purpose" platforms where a portion of proceeds go directly to support our rescue work.
Restaurant Fundraisers
Identify local restaurants (e.g., Chipotle, MOD Pizza, Panda Express) that offer give-back nights
Schedule and coordinate fundraising dates
Create promotional materials (flyers, social posts, email blurbs)
Ensure rescue receives its percentage after event concludes
Online Passive Programs
Maintain our presence on AmazonSmile alternatives (e.g., iGive, RoundUp, Goodshop, Giving Assistant)
Promote workplace giving, employer matching, and credit card round-up programs
Shop-to-Support Partnerships
Set up affiliate or charitable programs with pet supply stores, ethical brands, and online platforms
Examples: Chewy affiliate links, Etsy sellers, or handmade cat-themed products
Explore platforms (including but not limited to) like Bonfire, Ink to the People, or One Hope Wine that give a cut to nonprofits
Coordinate logistics and ensure our rescue receives funds as agreed
Qualifications
Passion for animal welfare and community engagement
Self-motivated, organized, and dependable
Friendly and professional when communicating with local businesses
Basic digital skills (email, spreadsheets, Canva or similar for creating flyers)
Creativity and resourcefulness in identifying new fundraising ideas
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Mewtique Manager position involves curating and managing items for the rescue to sell both at the rescue location and at off-site events.
Position can be shared with 2–3 people
Responsibilities include
Oversee daily operations of the boutique (open/close, cleanliness, inventory)
Curate and display cat-themed merchandise that appeals to cat lovers and supports the rescue mission
Stay on trend with cute, unique, and Instagram-worthy items (toys, apparel, gifts, art)
Partner with local makers or small businesses for exclusive or handmade cat-related products
Manage merchandise displays to promote sales and align with rescue branding
Track inventory, restock items, and coordinate with suppliers/vendors
Handle sales transactions, cash register, and point-of-sale system
Will work closely with our Fundraising Coordinator and our Finance Officer.
Qualifications
Experience in retail or small business management
Strong organizational and multitasking ability
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Volunteer Coordinator(s) is responsible for daily supervision and management of the shelter’s volunteer program as well as recruiting, providing training and mentorship, and retention of volunteers.
The Volunteer Coordinator will work closely with Foster Coordinator to ensure all fosters and volunteers are managed effectively and cohesively.
Responsibilities
Actively recruit volunteers through the use of the website, print media, community calendars, public speaking, attendance at community meetings and events, etc.
Train, mentor, and serve as initial primary contact for all volunteers
Train pertinent staff to train, mentor, and serve as primary contact for volunteers specific to their area
Develop and maintain advanced or specialized volunteer programs and training to ensure continual growth of the volunteer program
Qualifications
Customer service skills and the ability/desire to work directly with the public are necessary.
Able to communicate directly and work with shelter staff when appropriate.
Attention to detail and have the ability to absorb and recall large amounts of information.
Must be able to stand/walk for the duration of the shift.
Ability to assess whether or not a prospective volunteer is a fit for volunteering at the rescue and have clear rationale for that assessment.
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Event Planning Team Members will assist with planning and executing various events in the community.
Team Member would work in partnership with other committee members as well the Committee Chair.
Responsibilities:
Attend special events and do (but not limited to) the following: set up/tear down tables/merchandise, answer questions about the rescue, promote the rescue.
Interact with the public to promote Almost Home Cat Rescue as well as inform the public of different opportunities within the organization
Qualifications:
Excellent customer service and communication skills
Friendly and positive attitude; ability to converse with and engage all types of people
Reliable attendance and ability to work independently required
Have the ability to understand, remember and follow instructions and procedures; and the ability to ask questions when appropriate
Ability to stand, walk and work for long periods
Time commitment: 5-10 hours/month. Time commitment may be dependent on the month - summer are usually more busy than winter
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This area of volunteering can vary depending on the level of your crafting / sewing ability.
Whether you knit, crochet, or hand or machine sew, we’ve got something for you! We even have projects that don’t require any sewing!
Many things made are used for fundraising / selling to help the cats and shelter.
Some crafting ideas include:
Cat toys
Blankets / quilts
cat beds
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Almost Home Cat Rescue is in need of grant writers to assist in the grant writing process to help fund our many programs.
We’re also in need of volunteer(s) for on-going grant availability research.
Responsibilities
Have an understanding of the history, structure, objectives, programs, and financial needs of Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE
The ability to draft various grant proposals as well as supporting documents based on the funding requirements for Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE
Will have to respond to both internal and external queries on drafted and already submitted proposals.
Be able to maintain and form positive relationships with fund providers and other stakeholders that support Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE
Qualifications
Driven and proactive when it comes to seeking out new funding sources.
When proposing ideas, they are comfortable making suggestions and looking into every possibility for obtaining funds for Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE
Natural storyteller and be able to supplement their creativity with data-driven research.
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Adoption Counselors assist in the introductions between shelter animals and potential adopters. The counselor will learn about adopters’ lifestyle, animal experience, and expectations of a new kitty to make an appropriate adoption match. The
Adoption counselor will provide accurate details about animals’ health, behavior, and care needs. They help adopters understand adoption policies, complete necessary paperwork, make payments, and transfer microchip accounts.
Main Duties/General Responsibilities:
Guide the Adoption Applicants through Adoption process through initial screening, reference checks, Best Match with cats, and payments
* Understand the general care and transition needed to bring home a new cat or kitten, and use behavioral resources for introductions and special needs where applicable
Communicate with the foster families to hand off scheduling meet & greet sessions with approved adopters and kitties
Complete digital payments (CC/Square, Zelle, PayPal, Venmo), and also process checks and cash for adoption fees
Maintain accurate records and manage the adoption database, including creating Adopter profiles, recording payments and moving cats to Adopted status
Register and transfer microchip information
Other administrative and management duties as assigned
Qualifications:
Must have the desire and ability to work directly with the public
experience working with people on diverse teams
Experience with a non-profit volunteer group / animal rescue preferred
Great verbal and written communication skills
Excellent skills in organization and team coordination
Attention to detail is crucial, and must be able to complete all paperwork accurately and in a timely manner
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The socialization process for unsocialized, shy, fearful, or anxious cats takes patience, knowledge, and understanding.
When working with unsocialized, shy, fearful, stressed, or anxious cats, it is important to recognize that each case is unique. Every kitty has different personality traits and experiences that influence their behavior, and their current circumstances also play a part in how they react to people and their environment.
Socialization Sponsors should allow the cat to guide the process at their own pace. Sometimes it takes a month, sometimes six months depending on the age and temperament of the cat. Because each cat is a unique case, results and timing will vary.
You will have a good understanding of their needs and temperament, and be able to offer them environmental and emotional enrichment to ease their fear or anxiety, and remove stressors.
Requirements:
Have general knowledge of cat behavior and be able to read body language and vocalizations to help guide your interactions in a compassionate way that builds trust.
Prepare the kitty’s space with enrichment items and create a base camp where they feel safe and secure.
Gather tools like gloves, wands, backscratchers, and toys to slowly guide the initial interactions.
Create routine for the kitty to make them less fearful of the unknown.
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We’re looking for a Fundraising Vendor Fair Coordinator to help plan and manage our presence at seasonal vendor fairs, craft shows, or farmers markets—especially in the summer and holiday seasons.
You’ll help coordinate logistics, vendor registration (if we’re hosting), booth setup, volunteers, and merchandise that supports our rescue efforts.
Responsibilities
Research and sign up for local vendor events, craft fairs, or holiday markets
If hosting our own event: coordinate location, permits, vendors, and basic logistics
Work with team to select and prepare merchandise (e.g., cat-themed gifts, rescue swag, handmade items)
Schedule volunteers for booth setup, breakdown, and sales shifts
Promote the event via social media, email newsletters, and local groups
Track sales and donations from the event and report totals to the leadership team
Qualifications:
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Comfortable communicating with vendors, event hosts, and volunteers
Creative flair for displays and merchandise selection
Reliable, proactive, and a team player
Passion for animal rescue and community involvement
Bonus: Experience in events, markets, or small business
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Role Overview
As the Secretary of the Board, you will play a crucial role in supporting the governance and administrative functions of our rescue.
This position requires a detail-oriented individual with excellent organizational skills, strong communication abilities and a passion for our mission of cat welfare and adoption.
Responsibilities
Meeting Coordination: Schedule and organize board meetings, including sending out meeting notices, preparing agendas, and recording minutes.
Documentation and Record-Keeping: Maintain accurate records of board proceedings, including meeting minutes, resolutions, and official correspondence.
Board Communication: Serve as a point of contact for board members, facilitating communication and ensuring timely dissemination of information.
Compliance and Governance: Assist in ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and bylaws, as well as supporting the implementation of governance policies and procedures.
Board Support: Provide administrative support to the board as needed, including assisting with board member onboarding and orientation.
Volunteer Positions
There is always the need for other skills that aren’t mentioned above. We welcome all the help we can get - feel free to fill out an volunteer application to get started!
Shelter Positions
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Central to the success of Almost Home Cat Rescue MKE is the cleanliness and upkeep of the shelter, and this cannot be done without the volunteers who come in daily to tidy up.
Volunteers will work with a team of volunteers during the cleaning shift - you will not be at the rescue alone
Responsibilities
Daily, thorough cleaning of all animal areas, including cat areas, floors, dishes, bedding, etc.
Feeding the animals, including providing special diets as needed.
Doing laundry, dishes, washing windows, cleaning and mopping public areas as needed.
Providing a healthy, safe, clean and pleasant environment and facilities for the animals and the public.
Qualifications
Reliable attendance and ability to work independently required
Ability to communicate directly with other volunteers
Ability to pay attention to detail and have the ability to absorb and recall large amounts of information.
Be able to stand/walk for several hours
General knowledge about animal care and training is helpful but will be taught as appropriate.
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An open house volunteer is the first person a guest will encounter when entering the rescue during our Open House hours.
This volunteer will be able to answer basic questions and inquiries, direct clients to the proper department and be able to manage a busy lobby.
Volunteers will work with a team of volunteers during an open house shift - you will not be at the rescue alone
Qualifications:
Excellent customer service and communication skills
Friendly and positive attitude; ability to converse with and engage all types of people
Reliable attendance and ability to work independently required
Have the ability to understand, remember and follow instructions and procedures; and the ability to ask questions when appropriate
Ability to stand, walk and work for long periods