IRFC Volunteer Application Form

First and Last Name:

D.O.B./Age

Street Address

City:

State:

Zip:

Cell phone:

Email Address:

Please provide the email of two references who can speak to your reliability, work ethic, and ability to follow through (supervisors, mentors, volunteer coordinators — not friends or family).

Physical restrictions?

How did you hear about IRFC?

The IRFC Philosophy
The RCFP Track is not designed to identify who already knows the most about raptors. It is designed to identify who has the temperament to become exceptional at working with them.

Technical skills can be taught. Falconry techniques can be demonstrated. Bird handling can be learned through careful instruction and experience.

Character is different.

The qualities that matter most at IRFC are integrity, conscientiousness, personal accountability, curiosity, discipline and a commitment to doing things correctly; even when no one is watching.

We are looking for individuals who understand that every gate must be secured, every piece of equipment must be checked, every protocol matters and every bird depends on the people responsible for its care.

This is not about creating people who know how to handle raptors. It is about developing professionals who can be trusted with their welfare.

If that mindset describes you, we can teach you the rest.

Why IRFC specifically?(Answers like “I love birds” or “I want to work with animals” alone will not be considered. Be specific.)

List any organizations where you have volunteered (if applicable): Provide: Organization Name Role/Responsibilities Dates of Involvement

Supervisor/Coordinator Contact Information: Name & Email

Any other Animal Experience: (check all that apply)

If you would like to comment more on your experience with the above, please do so here:

If you listed other, please explain:

Other Experience, Special Skills, Strengths, Talents: (check all that apply)

If you would like to comment more on your experience with the above, please do so here:

If you listed other, please explain:

Falconry ExperienceCurrent license?Planning to become licensed?Current sponsor?Timeline?

Most volunteer work at IRFC involves cleaning, preparation, logistics, and repetitive tasks. Why are you willing to do this type of work consistently?

If you commit to a scheduled shift or responsibility and something comes up, how do you handle communication and accountability?

Where do you realistically see yourself in 1–2 years, and how does IRFC fit into that?

This role requires significant learning outside scheduled volunteer hours.Describe how you currently make time for independent study.

Why should IRFC invest time training you instead of someone else?

When are you available to volunteer? (check all that apply)

What is your long term commitment preference

Any additional comments:

By submitting this application, I confirm that I understand and agree to the following:

I have read and understand the IRFC Volunteer Code of Conduct.

I understand that IRFC offers different levels of volunteer involvement.

Event/General Volunteers: No minimum long-term commitment required; participation is on an as-needed basis.
Core/Advancement Track Volunteers: A minimum commitment of 6 months with consistent weekly participation is required. This track is necessary for those seeking deeper involvement, including bird care, handling and consideration for future paid opportunities.

I understand that bird handling is NOT guaranteed and is a privilege earned only through demonstrated reliability, discipline, and training over time.

I understand that volunteering does not imply or guarantee employment, housing, or future paid opportunities.

I understand that IRFC is a professional conservation organization, not a social club, and I am expected to remain task-focused during my time volunteering.

I understand that failure to meet these standards may result in reassignment or dismissal from the volunteer program.

Signature

Anything else you would like to say, please note it here:

All volunteers are required to successfully complete a background check prior to being permitted on the property. This policy is in place to ensure the safety, security and well-being of the raptors in our care.

If selected for the next step, you must respond within 48 hours to schedule an interview. Failure to respond within that timeframe will result in removal from consideration.

Raptor Conservation & Falconry Professional Track (RCFP)

IRFC Volunteer Application — Pre-Submission Requirements Before You Apply Please read the following carefully. These statements outline the expectations and standards for volunteering with the International Raptor & Falconry Center (IRFC).