We are on the lookout for some more volunteers that can help us in certain areas here at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary. If you have some spare time, love donkeys, and want to offer us some help, then this could be perfect for you!

We are looking for more volunteers in these areas:

MEET AND GREET

Volunteers on meet and greet are often the first members of the Donkey Sanctuary team to speak to visitors, delivery people, and anyone arriving at the Sanctuary. First impressions are very important, so we are looking for people who are happy to meet new people and tell them about the sanctuary or advise them on where they should go if making a delivery, etc... Usually there are two people on at a time so this might suit a couple, or two friends or family members.

Training will be given and you will work with a present meet and greeter until you feel comfortable. The “job” involves welcoming our guests and telling them about the sanctuary and where they can go – this is done by handing out our leaflet and our activity sheets, telling people about the donkeys and where they can be seen, letting everyone know where to find the restaurant and shop, and explaining a little about adoptions.

Admission is free but we do seek donations and have a donation machine and collecting box at the entrance. Donations can be made at many places on the site in collecting boxes, shop or cafe.

You will be in radio contact with staff at all times for any deliveries or visitors to the office, and if there is an event on site then you could be asked to meet and greet in the barns, court yard and be around the site to help people.

DONKEY ADOPTIONS

All the donkeys and ponies on the site are available for adoption and during the season you will be in the courtyard, at meet and greet in the car park, in the shop, or in the barns if there is an event.

You will receive training and work with an experienced person until you feel comfortable to be alone. There are always people available to answer unexpected questions! Usually you work alone.

You will be there to persuade and assist our visitors with adoptions. These are a suggested donation from £25 per year and can be paid in cash, by card, cheque, online, by telephone or using the QR codes on our adoption boards. Monthly or annual direct debits can also be set up. There is an adoption form to be completed and then a certificate with a picture of donkey handed out along with the current newsletter. During the year they will also receive further newsletters and information about the donkeys and the sanctuary. They can receive these by email or post.

CAFÉ KITCHEN

Help is required in the cafe at busy times which will include clearing tables, and some washing up.

CAFE

This role will be front of house in the café, greeting the visitors, running food out to tables, making and serving hot drinks, and assisting behind the counter.

EDUCATION VOLUNTEERS/DONKEY SPOTTERS

You will be based around the site to inform visitors about any daily activities with the animals, assist the visitor in finding their adopted donkey, helping visitors with quizzes, and assisting tours for large groups and school visits.

EVENTS VOLUNTEER

We will require you on event days to assist in the smooth running of large events to include stewarding areas of the sanctuary, such as the bridleway, carpark, and courtyard. You may also be assisting in setting up and breaking down the event, and assisting in event activities, liaising with the event organizer and with visitors.

If you feel any of these roles may be a good fit for you then please do get in touch with us! You can call us on (01983) 852693, email tracy.hawkes@iowdonkeysanctuary.org, or click the button below to go to the volunteer page and fill out our form to apply.