When you apply to volunteer, you’ll see a list of available positions in the application form — just check the boxes for the areas you’re interested in!

As a growing 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we rely entirely on volunteers who can commit their time and follow through on their commitment. We ask that anyone signing up be dedicated and dependable so we can continue supporting our dogs effectively.

Use this link to apply.

Yes, you must be 21 years or older to volunteer at ELO.

Not at all! We welcome everyone, with or without dog experience. That said, prior handling experience is definitely a plus — some of our dogs can be stressed in new or busy environments, and we always prioritize their comfort and safety first.

It will depend on your role. Each role has its time commitment outlined in the volunteer application form.

A majority of our roles can be done remotely. The event-specific roles will be held at a variety of locations in NYC.

Yes! We hold monthly onboarding sessions for all new volunteers to get familiar with our rescue, processes, and expectations.

We do ask that volunteers be proactive, resourceful, and able to work independently — rescue is fast-paced and we’re often juggling many moving parts, so self-starters are key to keeping things running smoothly!

We offer corporate volunteer opportunities for companies interested in getting involved with our rescue work. A minimum donation to participate, which directly supports the care and needs of our dogs.

If your company is interested, feel free to reach out for more details on how to get involved!

Not at this time. We’re specifically looking for volunteers who are passionate about rescue and committed to helping purely for the benefit of the dogs.

Yes! Many of our volunteers first connect with us through fostering and choose to do both — or sometimes just one. 

Fostering with ELO means temporarily caring for a dog in your home until they’re adopted. It’s a hands-on, longer-term commitment that gives a dog the stability they need to thrive and find a forever home.

Volunteering with ELO involves supporting the rescue in other ways — like helping at events, transporting dogs to vet appointments/events, marketing, fundraising, or admin tasks. Volunteering tends to be more flexible and can be tailored to your interests.