NKAWF Volunteer Application

Northeast Kansas Animal Welfare Foundation is accepting applications for several volunteer opportunities. Each role offers a chance to join us in unleashing generosity across our 29-county service area. We invite you to submit your application if you are ready to make a meaningful difference for animals.

General Volunteer Opportunities
 
General volunteer duties may include assembling mailings, assisting with events, and delivering supplies. Volunteers may also help staff informational tables and distribute materials about the Foundation.

Animal Advocacy

We believe the choices we make in our own neighborhoods can influence animal welfare decisions across Kansas and throughout the country. Our goal is to make Kansas a role model for integrating humane policies, education, and action into everyday life. Animal Advocacy volunteers help promote animal welfare trends, policies, laws, and regulations to improve standards for animals. This may include sharing important information with personal or professional contacts, posting on social media, or reaching out to policymakers. As an animal advocate, you’ll be equipped with the support and resources you need to use your voice and platform to make a real difference for animals.

County Advocates

NKAWF is seeking one primary point of contact in each county within our service area. These individuals play an important role in expanding awareness of the Foundation’s mission. County Animal Welfare Advocates help keep the Foundation informed about local animal welfare issues and work with us to identify pet-related needs and potential solutions. Advocates may also help identify speaking opportunities and local events where the Foundation should be represented.

Grant Selection Committee

Grant awards are determined by a committee comprised of staff, board members, and members of the public. The committee meets two to three times per year following each grant cycle deadline, typically over lunch. Committee members must read and review detailed grant proposals in advance of each meeting. Grant proposals are discussed during the meeting, and award decisions are made by the group. Conflicts of interest must be avoided, and while the Foundation does not publicly disclose the identities of committee members, individuals may share that they serve in this volunteer capacity.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is the Foundation’s seven-member governing body and advises staff on fulfilling our mission. The board safeguards the Foundation’s purpose by ensuring that all grantmaking, investments, and activities advance our charitable goals. Each board member may serve up to two three-year terms, and term limits are designed to bring fresh perspectives into the organization. Officer positions—chair, vice chair, secretary, and treasurer—are elected annually. Board meetings are typically held quarterly and last approximately one hour.

By submitting this application, I agree to the following Code of Conduct: 

Mission Alignment

I will support the mission, values, and goals of the organization and conduct myself in a way that reflects positively on the Foundation.

Professionalism and Respect

I will treat staff, volunteers, board members, partners, and community members with courtesy, dignity, and respect. I will avoid harassment, discrimination, or behavior that creates conflict or discomfort.

Integrity and Ethical Behavior

I will act honestly, responsibly, and in the best interest of the organization. I will not use my role for personal gain or engage in any activity that may create a real or perceived conflict of interest.

Confidentiality

I will maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information obtained through my role and will not share internal materials, donor information, or private data without authorization.

Compliance With Policies and Laws

I will follow all organizational policies, safety procedures, and applicable local, state, and federal laws. 

Appropriate Communication

I will communicate respectfully in person and online, including on social media, and will avoid speaking on behalf of the organization unless specifically authorized.

Reliability and Accountability

I will fulfill my commitments and actively participate. I will communicate promptly if I am unable to complete a task or attend a meeting. 
 
Protection of People, Animals, and Property

I will act responsibly and safely, ensuring no harm comes to individuals, animals, or organizational property through my actions or negligence.

Termination of Role

I understand that failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in dismissal from volunteer duties or board service consideration.

Conflicts of Interest

I will avoid any personal, financial, or professional interests that conflict with the Foundation’s mission or decisions. I will disclose any actual or potential conflicts of interest as soon as they arise. I will not use my role to obtain personal benefit for myself, my family, or my business associates. I will recuse myself from discussions or decisions where a conflict exists.