Position Overview
The #1 goal of Humane Action Pennsylvania (HAP) is to educate the public on how to prevent and relieve animal suffering by taking meaningful action. The HAP Public Fundraising Volunteer plays a critical, front-line role in making this work possible by raising essential funds that directly power HAP’s programs, advocacy, and education efforts across the region.
Public Fundraising Volunteers represent HAP in the community, often outside high-traffic businesses like Walmart, by asking passersby to make a small donation that adds up to a big impact for animals, people, and the environment.
Purpose of the Position
• Generate vital, unrestricted funding that allows HAP to respond quickly to emerging animal-protection needs
• Increase public awareness of HAP
• Serve as a friendly, approachable ambassador for the organization
Duties and Responsibilities
• Stand outside approved businesses and politely ask passersby to support Humane Action Pennsylvania with a donation
• Share brief, accurate information about HAP’s mission and current work
• Engage the public in a positive, respectful, and non-confrontational manner
- Pick up materials (donation jar and signage) in advance of scheduled shifts, or coordinate delivery as needed
• Collect donations in accordance with HAP policies and procedures
• Communicate with HAP staff before and after shifts as needed
Training Requirements
• Brief training on HAP’s mission, core values, talking points, and fundraising guidelines
• Clear expectations provided in advance so volunteers feel confident and prepared
Skills and Qualifications
• Friendly, outgoing, and comfortable talking to strangers
• Reliable and punctual
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Comfortable working outdoors
• Ability to represent HAP in a positive, professional, and nonpartisan manner
• Enthusiasm for animal protection and community engagement
• No prior fundraising experience required
** Bonus: **Friendly dogs and well-behaved children are welcome to join you, as long as they help create a positive, inviting presence.
Time Commitment Required
• Occasional Saturdays between March and October
• Flexible scheduling: volunteers may sign up for two-hour shifts or longer, depending on availability
• No minimum number of shifts required—volunteer when it works for you
Dress Code
• Casual, weather-appropriate attire
Location
• In person, primarily outside retail locations such as Walmart in the Pittsburgh region
Benefits to the Volunteer
• Make an immediate, tangible impact for animals
• Be part of one of the most important fundraising efforts that sustains HAP’s work
• Build confidence and communication skills
• Meet like-minded advocates and supporters
• Enjoy flexible, low-commitment volunteering with high impact
• Be a valued member of the HAP team
Supervisors
Natalie Ahwesh, Executive Director
Shannon Dickerson, Director of Operations
What Volunteers Can Expect from HAP
• Clear guidance and expectations
• Support from staff and fellow volunteers
• Respect, appreciation, and gratitude for your time and effort
• A welcoming, mission-driven volunteer experience
Details
- Available Times: Weekends (daytime)
- Time Commitment: A few hours per month
- Commitment Details: 2 hours per month
- Recurrence: Recurring
- Volunteers Needed: 20
- Cause Areas: Animals, Community Development, Environment & Sustainability, Health & Medicine, Policy
- Good For: Kids, Teens, Age 55+
- Participation Requirements: Driver’s License