Volunteer Perks / Recognition

It is important for volunteers to be recognized for all that they do. Whether it be fostering, fundraising, adoption counseling, attending adoption events, socializing animals or just spreading the word about Chicago Pet Rescue, the hard work and dedication that volunteers put in is invaluable. Which is why we take the time to recognize all of our volunteers one way or another. 

Perks for being a volunteer
  • The feeling of a great accomplishment
  • Recognition gifts (pet related items or non pet related gift cards)
  • VIP Nomination (quarterly gift card winners) - see below
  • Offer new pet name suggestions
  • Thank you card and social media publication
  • Discount or free tickets to CPR events
  • ​More Perks Described Below

Whether they are nominated for VIP status, given a recognition gift or special acknowledgement card - we try to make each volunteer feel special and appreciated.

VIP - Volunteer Incentive Program

We believe your dedication and positive attitude should be rewarded.  ​


​Each month Chicago Pet Rescue nominates a "Volunteer of the Month" as part of our

Volunteer Incentive Program! 

These heroes go above and beyond in their efforts to help our rescued pets.  We encourage you to volunteer as much as you can.  The more hours you give, the more chances you'll have to be a hero.
Ways to become Volunteer of the Month:
  • Help with fundraising, event planning, soliciting donations, handling and transporting pets, conducting home visits, recruiting volunteers and foster homes, providing extra training and promoting a foster pet, and more!

Perks of being a VIP Volunteer:
  • Your story and picture posted on our Volunteer of the Month page and on on Facebook
  • Your name entered in the VIP prize raffle (conducted every 4 months)
  • A free ticket to the volunteer recognition party at the end of the year.
  • The feeling of a great accomplishment

Check out a new hero each month—maybe you'll be featured next!  Nominate yourself
or another volunteer—email us at [email protected].

Other Perks of Volunteering


Meet New People!  Chicago Pet Rescue is made up of a dynamic community of animal lovers, and we do our best to create a fun and inviting environment for our fabulous volunteers at our Chicago headquarters, holding most events within 30 minutes of Edison Park. Come enjoy the company of our wonderful animals while hanging out with other terrific, like-minded people who are passionate about standing up for animals.

Free Stress Relief Sessions!  As a thank you for your dedication and hard work we offer volunteers the chance to help a homeless animal feel like a companion, even if its just for an hour. Shed your stress and energize with one of our animals! We offer training to our volunteers on how to socialize a cat, kitten, dog or puppy.  Once you are trained we invite you to schedule a time to stop by Skokie PetSmart or Norridge Petco to relax with any of our on-site or visiting animals. Visitations need to be scheduled, so contact [email protected] for details.  

Got Talent? CPR uses today's technology to raise awareness and funds for animals. Whether it’s a YouTube video, an album, a live performance or a commercial, our volunteers have the opportunity to showcase their talents in many ways. We love the idea of giving passionate and creative people an opportunity to do what they love for the benefit of animals. Doesn’t get much better than that!

Hit The Town!  Earn tickets to go see a movie, enjoy a nice cup of coffee or have a nice dinner on us, as part of our Volunteer Perks program. We appreciate your dedication and believe that rewarding your hard work with fun events makes for happier volunteers!

Gift for your Time!!  Each time you Volunteer for at least 2 hours during one event you can have a staff person sign your volunteer card and be closer to picking a gift (after a total of 8 hours).  We want you to have fun during and after our events.

Save Money!  Protect those you love by volunteering.  Volunteers who accumulate a minimum of 5 hours per year are eligible for 10% off their 24PetWatch pet insurance.  Having this coverage can help ensure pets receive the right medical attention when they need it.

Ready to join us?  Fill out our online volunteer sign-up form.  Thanks!