Volunteer Positions
Evaluator - adult & youth
Purpose:
Support and assess therapy dog teams through pre-certification classes and certification day, ensuring handlers and dogs are prepared, confident, and set up for success in a positive and encouraging environment. Assess the handler & dog’s first time at their volunteer facility.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Certification Classes
Assist with or lead pre-certification classes for handlers and their dogs by creating and conducting mock certification tests that mirror certification day. You will observe the dog and handlers' demeanor with others and to each other. This day happens within the week before Certification day.
Certification Day Evaluation
Evaluate while you are testing the handler and dog teams during official certification testing. Assess dogs’ behavior, temperament, and responses in various environments. Evaluate handler awareness, communication, and control of their dog. Consider breed traits, individual temperament, and environmental factors during evaluations. Ensure all evaluations are conducted fairly, consistently, and professionally.
Assisting Handler and Dog in Their New Facility
When the handler and their dog become a certified therapy team they will need someone to come with them to their new facility for the first time. You will assess what the handler and dog can do to make the experience a comforting and positive outcome. You will assess if the facility is safe and a good fit for the therapy team. You will report back to the Executive Director.
Skills & Qualifications
Strong knowledge of dog behavior and body language
Understanding of breed characteristics and environmental influences
Ability to read and support handlers as individuals
Calm, patient, and confident demeanor
Ability to provide feedback in a positive, respectful, and encouraging manner
Strong communication and observation skills
Community Liaison - adult
Location-Based Volunteer Role (Utah Communities)
Multiple volunteers may serve in this role across different towns throughout Utah.
Purpose:
Serve as the primary connection between our therapy dog program and the local community, including school districts, nursing homes and public organizations, while also providing on-site coordination at events to ensure smooth, professional interactions between handlers, therapy dogs, and the public.
Key Responsibilities:
Communicate and build relationships with city officials and community leaders
Coordinate with local school districts and individual schools to schedule therapy dog visits
Identify and secure opportunities for therapy dogs to attend public events, libraries, hospitals, and community gatherings
Present information about the therapy dog program to organizations
Ensure all required permissions, documentation, and scheduling details are completed
Maintain clear communication between event organizers and therapy dog handlers
Follow up after events to maintain partnerships and gather feedback
Support Handlers as needed during their time at the facilities
Ideal Qualifications & Skills:
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Comfortable networking and initiating outreach
Organized and able to manage multiple moving parts
Professional, calm, and confident in public settings
Passion for community engagement and animal-assisted therapy
Familiarity with local schools and city processes is a plus
Impact of the Role:
The Community Liaison ensures our therapy dogs are professionally represented in the community while creating meaningful, well-organized experiences for students, families, and community members.
Community Outreach Director - adult
Location-Based Volunteer Role (Utah Communities)
Multiple volunteers may serve in this role across different towns throughout Utah.
Position Summary
The Community Outreach Director is responsible for increasing community awareness of the organization’s programs and services. This role oversees the Event Coordinator and Liaison to help expand outreach efforts and build relationships with local facilities and community partners. The Community Outreach Director works closely with the Event Coordinator and Liaison to promote programs, organize events, and help bring therapy dog services into community facilities.
Key Responsibilities
Oversee and support the Event Coordinator and Liaison in their roles
Increase community awareness of the organization’s programs and services
Build relationships with community organizations, facilities, and partners
Assist in gaining access to facilities for therapy dog visits and programs
Support the Event Coordinator in planning and organizing community events
Help ensure events run smoothly and assist where needed
Work with the Liaison to help coordinate therapy dog visits in facilities
Communicate with community members about available programs and services
Identify opportunities to expand outreach and community involvement
Qualifications
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Ability to work collaboratively with people
Organizational and leadership skills
Passion for community service and helping others
Experience in outreach, event planning, or community engagement is helpful but not required
Event Coordinator - adult & youth
Location-Based Volunteer Role (Utah Communities)
Multiple volunteers may serve in this role across different towns throughout Utah.
Purpose
Identify and coordinate community events that increase awareness of the therapy dog program, provide educational outreach, and create opportunities for therapy dogs to engage with the public.
Key Responsibilities
Event Identification & Outreach
Research and identify local events, fairs, festivals, school programs, and community gatherings
Connect with event organizers to explore participation opportunities
Secure event details including date, time, location, and requirements
Ensure the event aligns with the mission and standards of the therapy dog program
Community Education & Engagement
Represent the organization at events
Educate community members about:
What therapy dogs do
How teams become certified
Volunteer opportunities and program needs
Answer questions in a professional and welcoming manner
Event Logistics
Coordinate therapy dog participation when applicable
Assist with event setup and booth organization
Help manage interactions between dogs and the public
Support handlers during the event
Assist with cleanup and tear-down
Local Coverage
Serve as a point person for events within your assigned town or region
Work collaboratively with the Outreach Community Coordinator
Skills & Qualifications
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Comfortable speaking with the public
Organized and proactive
Reliable and able to commit to scheduled events
Passion for community outreach and therapy dog work
Impact of the Role
Event Coordinators expand the reach of the therapy dog program throughout Utah. By building local connections and representing the organization at community events, they help grow awareness, recruit new teams, and bring comfort and joy to more people.
Sponsorship Coordinator - adult & youth
Location-Based Volunteer Role (Utah Communities)
This position may be filled in multiple towns throughout Utah to help build local sponsorship relationships.
Purpose
Develop and maintain sponsorship partnerships that financially support Rocky Mountain Therapy Dogs, while ensuring sponsors feel connected, valued, and informed about the impact of their support.
Key Responsibilities
Community Sponsorship Development
Reach out to local businesses and individuals to discuss sponsorship opportunities
Present the mission, impact, and community value of Rocky Mountain Therapy Dogs
Build positive, professional relationships with potential sponsors
Represent the organization with kindness, confidence, and integrity
Attend select Board meetings to stay informed on program developments
Participate in events occasionally to gain firsthand knowledge of the program
Team Sponsor Relationship Management
Serve as the point of contact for assigned sponsors
Provide monthly updates to sponsors who have funded a therapy dog team
Collect photos and updates from therapy teams or the Digital Media Specialist
Share meaningful stories about the team’s visits and impact
Maintain organized records of sponsorship communication
Write engaging and well-crafted emails
Present updates in fun, heartwarming, and creative ways
Highlight milestones, events, and special moments
Ensure sponsors feel appreciated and connected to the team they support
Skills & Qualifications
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Professional and confident when speaking with businesses
Comfortable asking for sponsorship support
Strong writing skills for sponsor updates
Organized and consistent with monthly communication
Passion for the therapy dog program and community outreach
Impact of the Role
The Sponsorship Operator plays a vital role in sustaining and growing the therapy dog program. Through relationship-building and thoughtful communication, this role strengthens community partnerships and ensures sponsors feel directly connected to the lives they are helping impact.
Marketing Coordinator - adult & youth
Purpose:
Promote Rocky Mountain Therapy Dogs in creative, cost-effective ways that increase community awareness, grow participation, and strengthen the organization’s presence throughout Utah.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Marketing
Develop creative marketing ideas that require little to no financial cost
Identify grassroots and community-based promotion opportunities
Look for partnerships that increase visibility without major expense
Help expand awareness in towns across Utah
Community Awareness
Promote the mission and impact of Rocky Mountain Therapy Dogs
Support recruitment of new therapy dog teams and volunteers
Highlight program successes, milestones, and community impact
Collaborate with Event Coordinators and Sponsorship Operators to amplify outreach
Creative Promotion
Explore low-cost tools such as:
Social media campaigns
Community bulletin boards
Local Facebook groups
School newsletters
Word-of-mouth initiatives
Community partnerships
Think outside the box to generate visibility in positive, engaging ways
Collaboration
Work closely with the Digital Media Specialist for visual content
Coordinate with the Sponsorship Operator to align messaging
Support youth volunteers interested in marketing initiatives
Skills & Qualifications
Creative and resourceful mindset
Strong understanding of social media and community engagement
Good written communication skills
Ability to think strategically
Self-motivated and proactive
Passion for community service and therapy dog outreach
Impact of the Role
The Marketing Coordinator helps expand the reach and influence of Rocky Mountain Therapy Dogs through smart, budget-conscious strategies. By increasing awareness and community engagement, this role directly supports program growth and sustainability.
Youth Program Director
Multiple Volunteer Positions Available
This role may be filled by more than one individual to support youth volunteers across different towns and regions.
Purpose
Provide leadership, mentorship, and support to youth volunteers involved in the therapy dog program, helping them grow in responsibility, confidence, and leadership skills.
Key Responsibilities
Youth Leadership & Mentorship
Oversee and support youth volunteers in their assigned roles
Provide encouragement, guidance, and constructive feedback
Help youth develop leadership, communication, and organizational skills
Foster a positive and inclusive environment
Program Oversight
Coordinate with youth serving in roles such as:
Youth Board of Directors
Certification Day Assistants
Digital Media Specialists
Sponsor Coordinator/Operator
Marketing Support
Ensure youth understand their responsibilities and follow through on commitments
Help match youth with roles that align with their strengths and interests
Communication & Accessibility
Support youth in local towns through in-person meetings when possible
Provide mentorship via video calls when distance requires
Maintain communication with parents/guardians when appropriate
Leadership Development
Identify areas where youth may need additional training or support
Encourage initiative and accountability
Help youth take ownership of projects while providing appropriate supervision
Skills & Qualifications
Strong leadership and mentoring abilities
Patient, encouraging, and supportive personality
Understanding of youth development and leadership growth
Strong communication skills (in-person and virtual)
Organized and able to oversee multiple youth volunteers
Passion for community service and therapy dog work
Impact of the Role
The Youth Program Director helps shape the next generation of leaders within the therapy dog program. By providing structure, encouragement, and accountability, this role ensures youth volunteers feel empowered, supported, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to the organization and their communities.
Digital Media Specialist - adult & youth
Purpose:
Capture and create meaningful visual content that showcases our therapy dogs in action, supports handler training, and spreads positivity throughout the community.
Key Responsibilities
Event & Class Coverage
Attend events, school visits, classes, and certification days
Film and photograph therapy dogs and their interactions with people
Capture both candid and structured moments that reflect the heart of the program
Training & Educational Content
Create training videos for therapy dog handlers
Develop instructional clips covering:
What it takes for a dog to become a therapy dog
How to prepare for certification testing day
What to expect during therapy visits
Proper conduct and best practices for handlers
Edit and organize video content into clear, professional training materials
Social Media & Community Engagement
Produce short, uplifting clips of therapy dogs in action
Share “behind-the-scenes” moments that show dogs being dogs
Help grow online presence and community awareness
Create content that spreads comfort, happiness, and positivity
Ideal Qualifications & Skills:
Experience with photography and videography
Video editing skills (basic to advanced)
Creative storytelling ability
Comfortable working in public settings
Ability to capture genuine, heartwarming moments
Organized with file management and deadlines
Passion for animals and community outreach
Impact of the Role:
The Digital Media Specialist helps preserve meaningful moments and expand the reach of our therapy dog mission. Through powerful visuals, this role brings smiles to the community and helps more people understand the value of therapy dogs.
Creative Media Specialist - adult & youth
Purpose:
Capture meaningful moments through photography at therapy dog events and certification days, helping tell the story of the Rocky Mountain Therapy Family.
Key Responsibilities
Event Photography
Attend community events where therapy dogs are participating
Photograph dogs interacting with students, families, and community members
Capture candid, emotional moments that reflect the impact of the program
Document event highlights for marketing and internal use
Certification Day Coverage
Photograph new therapy dogs and their handlers during certification testing
Capture milestone moments as teams officially join the Rocky Mountain Therapy Family
Take individual and group photos of newly certified teams
Help create welcoming and celebratory content for announcements
Content Organization
Edit and enhance photos as needed
Organize and label files for easy access
Provide images for social media, website updates, newsletters, and promotional materials
Ideal Qualifications & Skills:
Experience with photography (professional or skilled hobbyist)
Comfortable photographing in public and school settings
Ability to capture natural, heartfelt moments
Organized with file management
Passion for animals and community engagement
Impact of the Role:
The Content Creation Specialist preserves the special milestones and everyday magic of our therapy dogs. Their work helps celebrate new teams, strengthen community connections, and visually share the mission of Rocky Mountain Therapy with a wider audience.
Certification Coordinator - adult & youth
Purpose:
Oversee the organization and logistics of pre-certification classes and certification day, ensuring handlers are fully prepared and events run smoothly and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities
Handler Registration & Preparation
Assist handlers in completing required paperwork for certification testing
Manage registration forms using Google Forms, Google Docs, and Google Sheets
Schedule and assign testing time slots
Provide clear communication regarding location, expectations, and what to prepare for certification day
Serve as the primary point of contact for certification-related questions
Volunteer Coordination
Recruit volunteers through Live Like Sam and other community channels
Assign and organize volunteer roles for pre-certification and certification days
Ensure all volunteers understand their responsibilities
Provide guidance and oversight during events
Event Management
Oversee logistics for pre-certification and certification testing days
Coordinate with evaluators and other team leaders
Ensure testing flow stays on schedule
Troubleshoot issues calmly and professionally
Confirm that all paperwork and documentation are properly collected and organized
Youth Leadership Support
When youth volunteers assist in this role, delegate appropriate responsibilities
Provide mentorship and ensure assigned tasks are completed accurately
Encourage leadership development while maintaining accountability
Skills & Qualifications
Strong organizational and administrative skills
Comfortable using Gmail and Google Workspace (Forms, Sheets, Docs)
Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
Ability to manage schedules and multiple moving parts
Leadership and delegation skills
Calm and solution-oriented under pressure
Passion for supporting therapy dog teams and community service
Impact of the Role
The Certification Coordinator ensures that every handler feels prepared and supported throughout the certification process. Their leadership keeps events structured, welcoming, and professional, helping maintain the integrity and excellence of the therapy dog program.
Youth Board of Directors Member - youth
Age Requirement: 16–18 years old
Purpose:
Serve as a youth leader and ambassador for the therapy dog program, supporting events, participating in leadership decisions, and helping expand the program’s impact within the community.
Key Responsibilities
Event Support & Representation
Attend therapy dog events and assist where needed
Help with setup, coordination, and guest interaction
Represent the program in a professional and positive manner
Speak confidently about the mission, goals, and impact of the therapy dog program
Program Knowledge & Advocacy
Learn the ins and outs of the therapy dog program
Understand the certification process and team expectations
Educate community members about what therapy dogs do and how they serve
Serve as a youth ambassador for the organization
Board Participation
Attend scheduled board meetings
Contribute ideas and youth perspectives
Participate in discussions and planning initiatives
Take on responsibilities in a chosen area of interest (events, media, outreach, fundraising, etc.)
Leadership Development
Help move the program forward within the communities
Demonstrate responsibility, initiative, and follow-through
Support and mentor younger youth volunteers when appropriate
Requirements
Must be between the ages of 16–18
Must have reliable transportation or ability to drive to events
Ability to commit to meetings and scheduled events
Parental/guardian consent if required
Skills & Qualities
Strong communication skills
Leadership potential and willingness to learn
Responsible and dependable
Comfortable speaking to adults and community members
Passion for animals, service, and community involvement
Impact of the Role
Youth Board Members bring fresh ideas, energy, and a youth perspective to the organization. They help bridge the gap between generations while developing leadership skills and actively supporting the growth of the therapy dog program in the community.
Office Coordinator - adult & youth
Multiple Volunteer Positions Available
This area offers flexible volunteer opportunities. Roles may be filled by adults or youth volunteers, depending on responsibility level and time commitment.
Purpose
Provide administrative and communication support to ensure therapy dog teams, facilities, and program records are organized, current, and operating smoothly.
Areas of Responsibility
Volunteers may serve in one or more of the following roles:
1. Team Hours & Data Tracking
Responsibilities:
Track monthly volunteer hours submitted by therapy dog teams
Communicate with teams who have not logged their hours
Transfer hour data into official data sheets provided by the organization
Ensure all hours are logged and updated monthly
Requirements:
Gmail account
Ability to use Google Sheets and Google Docs
Comfortable emailing, calling, or texting teams
Detail-oriented and consistent
2. Facility Placement & Scheduling Support
Responsibilities:
Assist therapy dog teams in securing volunteer locations
Contact Liaisons regarding placement opportunities
Reach out to new facilities to explore partnerships
Coordinate with established facilities to schedule new therapy teams
Communicate with Evaluators or certified mentors who may need to accompany new teams on visits
Requirements:
Strong communication skills
Professional phone and email etiquette
Organized scheduling ability
3. Team Support & Wellness Check-Ins
Responsibilities:
Maintain regular communication with therapy dog teams
Check in to ensure teams are doing well
Document temporary absences (vacations, medical leave, dog surgery, etc.)
Keep records updated regarding team availability
Requirements:
Compassionate and supportive personality
Strong listening and communication skills
Organized record-keeping
4. Vaccination & Record Management
Responsibilities:
Track and update vaccination records for therapy dogs
Maintain organized Google Spreadsheet records
Notify teams when updated documentation is needed
Requirements:
Attention to detail
Comfortable managing confidential records
Proficiency with Google Sheets
5. Media & School Communication Support
Responsibilities:
Contact schools and facilities to request permission to share photos on social media
Confirm media release policies are followed
Document approvals before posting content
Requirements:
Professional communication skills
Clear documentation habits
Understanding of privacy guidelines
Skills & Qualifications
Must have a Gmail account
Comfortable using Google Workspace (Sheets, Docs, Forms)
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Organized and dependable
Able to manage monthly deadlines
Youth volunteers may assist in appropriate supervised tasks
Impact of the Role
The Office Coordinator ensures that the therapy dog program runs smoothly behind the scenes. Through accurate records, strong communication, and organized scheduling, this role supports therapy teams, maintains professional standards, and helps expand services within the community.
Administrative Assistant - adult & youth
Purpose:
Support the Executive Director in ensuring the organization operates smoothly, efficiently, and professionally. This role helps manage follow-ups, communication, and administrative tasks to keep projects moving forward.
Key Responsibilities
Executive Support
Assist the Executive Director with day-to-day administrative needs
Help track ongoing projects and ensure tasks are completed
Provide reminders and organizational support as needed
Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information
Research & Information Gathering
Look up information requested by the Executive Director
Research community contacts, policies, vendors, or resources
Compile information into organized summaries or documents
Communication & Follow-Up
Contact individuals, facilities, or volunteers to gather necessary information
Send follow-up emails or make phone calls regarding outstanding items
Help ensure deadlines are met
Relay clear and accurate information back to the Executive Director
Organizational Efficiency
Help identify ways to improve systems and workflow
Assist in organizing documents, digital files, and records
Support coordination between departments when needed
Skills & Qualifications
Strong organizational skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Comfortable making phone calls and sending professional emails
Detail-oriented and proactive
Ability to work independently
Discretion and professionalism
Familiarity with Gmail and Google Workspace preferred
Impact of the Role
The Administrative Assistant plays a key role in helping the Executive Director stay focused on leadership and growth. By managing follow-ups, gathering information, and keeping tasks organized, this role strengthens the overall efficiency and professionalism of the therapy dog program.
Website Maintenance - adult & youth
Position Summary
The Website Maintenance Volunteer helps keep the organization’s website updated, functional, and user-friendly. This role ensures that information about programs, events, and services is accurate and easy for the community to access. The volunteer will assist with updating content, monitoring website performance, and supporting the organization’s online presence.
Key Responsibilities
Update website content such as program information, news, and upcoming events
Ensure website information is accurate and up to date
Add photos, blog posts, or announcements when needed
Monitor the website for broken links or technical issues
Help improve the layout, organization, and user experience of the website
Work with team members to post updates about events, programs, and community outreach
Assist with basic troubleshooting or communicate technical issues to the appropriate team member
Qualifications
Basic knowledge of website platforms (such as WordPress, Wix, Squarespace, etc.)
Attention to detail and ability to keep information organized
Good communication and teamwork skills
Interest in supporting the organization’s online presence
Basic understanding of web design or content management is helpful
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Volunteer Role: Pre-Certification & Certification Day Helper - adult & youth
Position Summary
Volunteers of all ages are welcome to help during our Pre-Certification and Certification Day events. These events help evaluate therapy dogs and their handlers before they begin visiting facilities in the community. Volunteers play an important role by assisting evaluators, interacting with the dogs in testing scenarios, and helping the day run smoothly. This is a family-friendly opportunity, and families are encouraged to participate together.
General Volunteer Responsibilities
Assist evaluators by following instructions during dog testing exercises
Help simulate real-life interactions by:
Hugging and petting the dogs
Walking around the dogs
Reading to the dogs
Interacting calmly and respectfully with the dogs and handlers
Help create a positive and supportive environment for the dogs and handlers being evaluated
Follow guidance from event staff and evaluators throughout the event
Volunteer Age Guidelines
Volunteers of any age are welcome
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
Families are encouraged to volunteer together
Volunteer Roles Available
Greeter
Welcome handlers and their dogs when they arrive
Guide them to the appropriate testing stations
Help them understand where they need to go next
Ensure handlers and dogs feel supported and taken care of during the event
Recording / Photography
Help capture special moments during the event through photos or video
Record portions of testing if requested by staff
Volunteers in this role should have experience using a camera or recording equipment
Benefits of Volunteering
Fun opportunity to interact with therapy dogs
Great family-friendly service activity
Help support therapy dog teams preparing to serve the community
Be part of an encouraging and positive event