We are a 100% volunteer run organization, help us save wild birds!
Baby season is here and we are pausing volunteer orientations until August to focus on our patients.
Feel free to fill out a volunteer form below so you will be alerted as soon as classes open up!
Volunteer Requirements:
- Must be 18 or older.
- Must be able to pass a background check.
- Commit to one shift (anywhere from 3 – 5 hours) a week.
- Available for a minimum of three months.
- Preference is given to those who are consistently available throughout the year.
Steps to become a volunteer:
- Meet the requirements above.
- Read and review the Volunteer Handbook to understand what volunteering at TREE means.
- Complete and submit a volunteer application online.
- TREE may reach out to you and conduct an interview in person or by phone.
- If selected you will receive an email with orientation dates and times.
- Begin volunteering. The first 4 weeks are considered your training period and must be consecutive.
- Honor your commitment by volunteering one shift per week for at least the first 3 months. (This includes the training period).
- Enjoy giving back and the realization that YOU are making a difference for our wildlife!
Your application has been sent – Thank you!
Transport
Transporters play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of TREE by picking up already contained wild birds and bringing them into care. They may also transport birds to veterinary appointments and pick up food and medical supplies.
Rescue
Rescuers are on the front lines, tracking down and rescuing injured birds. This can range from rescuing a trapped songbird from a living room to wading through lakes to free a Great Egret from fishing line. This dynamic and rewarding work has a significant impact on local wildlife populations.
Feeding & Cleaning
Volunteers in this role clean, disinfect, and maintain crates, enclosures, and runs to ensure a sanitary environment. They prepare meals according to specified diets, feed the patients, clean up feeding residues, refill water, and change bedding as needed. They report any unusual conditions to TREE Rehabilitators
Become a Rehabilitator
TREE rehabilitators feed and handle animals, administer medication under supervision, and serve as education volunteers who can handle Ambassadors. Most rehabilitators start as wildlife rescuers or transporters and assist local rehabilitators with feeding and cleaning before becoming rehabilitators themselves. This role requires significant trust and responsibility for the lives of wildlife and TREE’s mission. TREE will sponsor the most dedicated volunteers for their Category IV permits.
Event Staff
Event staff support TREE at public outreach and educational events. They answer questions from the public, sell merchandise, fundraise, and transport equipment and goods between locations.
Tidewater Rehabilitation and Environmental Education 