Great River Rescue Volunteer Training

Great River Rescue is considered one of the best places in Bemidji to volunteer, and you can choose how often and when you volunteer. All volunteers must first attend a volunteer training class. Trainings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 6 pm. They are about 1 hour long. Volunteers must be age 13 and up to work directly with the animals. Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. There is a $15 application fee to become a volunteer. This fee helps cover the cost of processing applications. Parents of kids ages 13–15 only need to pay one application fee. Once you submit your fee, we will email you to confirm and let you know about any upcoming trainings. Please note that it may be a few days before we get back to you. If you are the leader of group and would like to set up a special training, just call us at 751-7910 and we can set something up for you. Groups should be no smaller than 3 people and no larger than 10. If you are required to obtain community service hours, you can complete your hours with Great River Rescue. However, you must first apply to become a volunteer and complete the Level 1 Training Class. Once you have completed the class you will be able to volunteer with us anytime we are open. GRR staff will be happy to sign off on your hours. Additionally, we hold occasional Level 2 Volunteer trainings each year. Level 2 volunteers learn more about dog handling and training, intake procedures at our shelter, and other advanced topics. We encourage volunteers who enjoy their experience to further their skills by becoming a Level 2 volunteer. Start the volunteer process at www.greatriverrescue.com/donate/volunteer/