Hotline volunteers play a key role in the rehabilitation of animals. This vital position acts as bridge between the person who has found an injured or orphaned animal and the rehabilitator who can administer lifesaving aid. At Animal Rehabilitators of the Carolinas (ARC) the hotline volunteers are an integral part of our organization. Our hotline volunteers are trained and mentored as they learn the protocols of the organization, and most importantly, how to determine if an animal is indeed hurt or orphaned and needs human intervention.
They can provide information on reuniting babies with their mother, information on emergency care, and help connect the caller with a rehabilitator if needed. The volunteer is the first person a caller interacts with when attempting to get help for an animal. Hotline volunteers sometimes can act in other roles depending on the call. One day they may be a negotiator to the person who decides they want to keep an animal (it is against the law to have a wild animal without proper licensing) or another time act as a comforting, supportive voice to a caller who tried to help, but the animal succumbs to their injuries before help can be obtained. Without hotline volunteers, the health and well-being of many animals would be in jeopardy. These people volunteer their time and support to help wildlife when they need it the most.
ARC is currently looking for caring people who would like to join our team as a hotline volunteer. You must be at least 18 years old, and be committed to at least two shifts (four hours each) twice a month. New volunteers will be trained and also have a mentor to reach out to for assistance and advice. Volunteering is completed online so phone and internet service is required.
If you are someone who wants to make a difference in the life of these precious creatures, please reach out by emailing volunteer@arcwildlife.org for more information. The joy of helping your first animal is priceless and the impact that one volunteer can make is invaluable to our organization. If you are interested in making a difference, please reach out for more information on volunteering or donating to the organization.
–Tena Pair, ARC Hotline Volunteer