Hands-On Animal Shelter Experience for Teens

Shelter Squad is the Animal Welfare League of Arlington’s (AWLA) premier youth program, designed for teens ages 13–15 who want meaningful, hands-on experience helping animals in a professional shelter environment.

Through this program, young animal lovers participate in the day-to-day operations of an animal shelter through age-appropriate activities. Teens work alongside AWLA staff to support animal care, enrichment, and shelter operations—building responsibility, empathy, and practical skills while making a difference for animals in need.

What Teens Do in Shelter Squad

Participants in Shelter Squad gain hands-on experience in real volunteer roles, including:

Providing enrichment activities for dogs, cats, and small animals
Preparing supplies and organizing animal care areas
Assisting with cleaning kennels and animal spaces
Supporting shelter staff with daily tasks that directly benefit animals

All activities are fully supervised by AWLA staff, ensuring a safe, educational, and positive experience for every participant.

Who Can Join

Ages: 13–15
Experience Level: No prior volunteer experience required
Group Size: 4 participants per session

This program is ideal for teens who love animals, are curious about animal care or shelter work, or want meaningful community service experience.

Program Fee

$50 for the first session (includes an official Shelter Squad T-shirt)
$30 for each additional session

Your initial registration includes a Shelter Squad T-shirt that teens will wear during the program. Subsequent sessions are offered at a reduced rate.