Here at Paws for Purple Hearts we value our volunteers and all of their hard work. Without their constant support our mission would be nearly impossible to achieve. PPH volunteers donate their time, talents and hard work helping us to accomplish everything possible when it comes to serving our Nation’s Warriors. So, what does it mean to be a PPH volunteer?

True Patriots

Individuals who volunteer with Paws for Purple Hearts have a passion for helping our Veterans and Active Duty Service Members, they want to give back to those who have sacrificed so much. These individuals understand the importance of their work, never taking their calling lightly and all while doing it with a smile. Their dedication is remarkable, appreciated, and a blessing to so many. They are on the front line and first to respond when we need something done.  For example, when a PPH service dog in training needs a weekend foster. They remain our biggest advocates. Our volunteers are true PATRIOTS.

Why Should I Volunteer?

I could give you the science behind volunteering and how Neuroscience has proven that volunteering is a powerful pathway for creating and sustaining personal joy and improving your overall health. Or how your happy trifecta; dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin levels rise improving your sleep, memory, and more, but I won’t bore you with the data. I have simply asked a few of our current volunteers at our Ruther Glen, VA site why they love volunteering with PPH.

• Photographer and PPH advocate, Tina, stated “Volunteering as a photographer for Paws for Purple Hearts gives me a sense of accomplishment. It allows me to apply my talents to help PPH achieve their goals of engaging the public in their mission. I always look forward to my time with the pups and people at Paws for Purple Hearts!”
• Puppy Parent & PPH advocate, Gayle, stated “Helping Veterans by parenting a puppy…I don’t think it can get better than that! I have been volunteering with Paws for Purple Hearts for about a year and am loving every minute of it. The puppies are trained during the week and I continue with the training and socializing (and loving) on the weekends. It’s the best of both worlds! It’s like having your own dog, but you don’t have to worry about the vet and food bills or who will take care of it while you are gone during the day – because you only have the puppy on the weekends. I strongly encourage people to give it a try. You have nothing to lose and you will probably fall in love with it.”

Taking the Next Step

By now we hope you are excited, fired up, and ready to take the next step in volunteering with Paws for Purple Hearts. So here are the next steps in doing so:

1. Find a Paws for Purple Hearts location near you.
2. Check out our different volunteering options, and once you decide where you will best fit, fill out the application!
3. Wait a bit… A Paws for Purple Hearts Advancement Associate will get back to you as soon as possible, inviting you in for an orientation, and getting you set up to serve.
4. Welcome to the PPH family, have fun and thank you for making a difference!

  If you are unable to volunteer, we ask that you consider donating to our mission, liking our site specific Facebook pages, or checking out our site specific Amazon Wishlist.