Volunteer On Campus

Volunteers are the heartbeat of our Rochester Hills campus. With more than 450 active volunteers, they make it possible for us to bring our mission to life every day. When you volunteer with us, you’re not just giving your time, you’re joining a community passionate about our mission.

Whether you’re drawn to working with our dogs, connecting with clients, or contributing your skills behind the scenes, you’ll find a place where your unique talents make a real difference.

We can’t wait to welcome you! To ensure a safe and supportive environment for our dogs, team members, clients, and fellow volunteers, all applicants complete a simple background check as part of joining our community.

View Current Opportunities Volunteer Login
A smiling individual sits in a chair, cradling two adorable puppies in their arms, surrounded by a warm and inviting indoor environment.
It's pretty magical, this place. The volunteers are just so fun and welcoming and the years of investment of the volunteers is incredible.
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Melissa

Guide Dog Client

Join Our Community

On-campus volunteers become an essential part of the Leader Dog community. By giving your time and dedication on campus, you’ll help care for the incredible dogs and support the clients who come here for our programs, all while gaining meaningful experiences, new skills and the joy of knowing you’re making a real difference. The roles listed below highlight some of the many ways you can get involved.

View Current Opportunities Group Volunteering

Volunteering at Leader Dogs for the Blind is a great way for your team to work together towards a common goal. Our volunteer opportunities are typically available for groups of up to 15 people. Whether assisting with landscaping, gardening or special events, your time will be spent providing vital assistance that impacts our ability to serve our clients and care for our dogs. All volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

For gardening and landscaping volunteers, we ask the group to arrive on campus by 8:30 a.m. and then serve from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. with an optional tour of the canine development center from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

Special event volunteering may take place at any time depending on each event. With Leader Dog events taking place year-round there are multiple opportunities to volunteer with your team.

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Breeding Litter Assistant

Volunteers in this role play an important part in caring for our breeding moms, dads, and their puppies. Working together as a team, you’ll help monitor and document canine behavior, provide enrichment and comfort, and support the daily care that keeps our dogs healthy and happy.

Breeding Dog Assistant

Volunteers in this role help care for our breeding dogs while they’re on campus. You may also support puppies over 4 months old who are here for boarding or evaluation. Your care and attention ensure every dog feels safe, supported, and well-loved during their stay.

On-Campus Puppy Raiser

Volunteers in this role care for puppies under three months old as they prepare to transition into their puppy raiser homes. Volunteers work to provide daily care, introduce litters to new sights and sounds, and document their observations.

Canine Support Assistant

Volunteers in this role play an important part in the growth and confidence of the dogs in our training program. You’ll work with strong, energetic dogs ages 12–18 months, offering enrichment, companionship, and calming support.

Dog Transitions Assisstant

Volunteers in this role provide enrichment and stress relief for dogs in training by carrying out Quiet Village and Daily Relaxation Protocols (training provided) in each dog’s suite. Your calming presence helps dogs feel secure and supported as they learn and grow.

Client Driver

Client Drivers use Leader Dog vehicles to safely transport clients to and from campus, often assisting with airport check-in, security, and unexpected travel changes. As the first and last person connection a client has with Leader Dog, client drivers offer reassurance, guidance, and a welcoming presence that helps make each client’s experience comfortable.

Dog Transport Driver

Dog Transport Drivers use Leader Dog vehicles to safely transport dogs in training, breeding stock, and puppies to and from campus, locally, regionally, and sometimes out of state. This role provides essential support and helps Leader Dog save valuable time and resources while ensuring every dog travels safely and comfortably.

Group Volunteering

We welcome corporate and community groups for one-time service projects that offer a meaningful way to give back while learning more about the Leader Dog mission. Groups of up to 15 are ideal, and all opportunities must be scheduled in advance.

Plan Your Session

Volunteering at Leader Dogs for the Blind is a great way for your team to work together towards a common goal. Our volunteer opportunities are typically available for groups of up to 15 people. Whether assisting with landscaping, gardening or special events, your time will be spent providing vital assistance that impacts our ability to serve our clients and care for our dogs. All volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

For gardening and landscaping volunteers, we ask the group to arrive on campus by 8:30 a.m. and then serve from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. with an optional tour of the canine development center from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

Special event volunteering may take place at any time depending on each event. With Leader Dog events taking place year-round there are multiple opportunities to volunteer with your team.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Contact name(Required)

Volunteer Requirements

To ensure a safe and successful experience for everyone involved campus volunteers must meet the following guidelines:

  • Minimum age: 18 years old
  • Time commitment: Some positions require a weekly shift for six months to a year, while others offer more flexibility.
  • Technology: Volunteers must have an active email address and regular internet access for scheduling and communication
  • Background check: All volunteers must successfully pass a criminal background check. We do not accept court ordered community service volunteers
A person wearing an orange shirt and a yellow apron is washing a golden retriever in a grooming station.
Being a volunteer for 18 years at Leader Dog is an emotional experience. Tears of joy, sometimes tears of sadness. But always a sense of love, pride and a sense of family!
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Renee

Volunteer

Every time I volunteer, I'm presented with more life-changing stories or moments with clients I am privileged to talk to. While I would like to blame my watery eyes on the fluorescent lights, I know it’s the conversations I have with the amazing people we serve.
A circular logo features a stylized handprint combined with a paw print, set against a warm yellow background, accompanied by the text "Volunteers and Team Members" below.

Mike

Volunteer

Leader Dog is my happy place! The moment you walk in everyone has a smile on their face and ready to assist you if needed. I am so proud to be a part of an organization that focuses on the wellbeing of everyone from the clients, the dogs, the puppies, and the staff.
A circular logo features a stylized handprint combined with a paw print, set against a warm yellow background, accompanied by the text "Volunteers and Team Members" below.

Sheila

Volunteer

Volunteering for an organization that is going to improve the life of an individual is a reward in itself - but I get to be with dogs that brighten my day and give them a chance to "be a dog" during their training. Playing, massaging, and walking them is a treat!
A circular logo features a stylized handprint combined with a paw print, set against a warm yellow background, accompanied by the text "Volunteers and Team Members" below.

Ron

Volunteer

A joyful individual cradles a fluffy golden retriever puppy, showcasing a warm and playful moment.

Explore Opportunities

We offer a wide range of volunteer roles on campus, some recurring, others one-time. Opportunities change throughout the year, so we encourage you to check regularly.

View Current Opportunities

Can’t find a role that fits at the moment? Fill out our Volunteer Interest Form, and we’ll contact you when a matching opportunity becomes available.

Meet The Volunteer Team

  • A woman with gray hair wearing glasses smiles while holding a golden retriever puppy in her arms.

    Melissa Pletcher

    Manager of Volunteer Engagement

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    Melissa Pletcher

    Melissa joined Leader Dog in 2022. Her position provides strategic leadership and direction in all aspects of volunteer engagement within the organization. She feels very fortunate to have landed at Leader Dog and is excited to be working with the many talented team members. Melissa says, “I have a passion for science, animals and service. I think volunteering our time is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and others.”

    She received her Master of Science degree from Eastern Michigan University and her Bachelor of Science in natural resources from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. She has over 20 years of experience in volunteer management and is certified in volunteer administration. Prior to coming to Leader Dog, she worked for the Detroit Zoological Society for 10 years as the assistant manager of volunteer services. She has also worked at the former Detroit Science Center, Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit, Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and Cranbrook Educational Community as the manager of volunteers. Over the years she has volunteered with various organizations including FrogWatch USA, The Henry Ford and Fair Lane, Home Clara and Henry Ford.

    In her free time, she enjoys visiting museums, zoos, Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, being outdoors and spending time with her pets.

  • A woman in a black dress sits on a bench next to a golden retriever wearing a bandana.

    Anne Preston

    Volunteer Engagement Coordinator

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    Anne Preston

    Anne received her master’s degree in social work with a concentration in management of human services from University of Michigan (“Go Blue!”), and her bachelors in social work with a dual major in sociology from Central Michigan University (“Fire Up, Chips!”). Her career has been spent working within nonprofit administration, with her most recent work experience being with the LACASA Center in Howell, Michigan as their volunteer coordinator. Prior to that, Anne worked at Detroit Zoological Society as their volunteer coordinator.

    Anne says about her job at Leader Dog, “I enjoy working with people and for people – having animals around is a bonus! I’m very fortunate to be a part of the Leader Dog team and work alongside so many amazing individuals.”

  • A smiling man in a blue jacket poses alongside a golden retriever on a black mat in a brightly lit office space.

    Jim Leach

    Volunteer Administrator - Canine Development Center

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    Jim Leach

    Before coming to Leader Dog, Jim worked at General Motors for 20 years, most recently as a warranty engineer. He has been married to his wife, Kim, since October 1996 and they have two children. Both Jim and Kim have been involved with Lions for years. In June 2020, their son became the fourth generation from their family to join the Lions. They adopted Reagan in 2016 and Beaux in 2022, both career changed Leader Dogs.

    Outside of work, Jim is busy serving as a Lions club secretary in Lake Orion. He is also the secretary for the Board of Directors for the Lions Visually Impaired Youth Camp in Lapeer and a member of the Board for Penrickton Center for Blind Children in Taylor. Jim also enjoys spending time with his family, working around the house, camping and golfing.

Frequently Asked Campus Volunteer Questions

Can families volunteer together?

Yes, families can volunteer together through our puppy raising program or by hosting a breeding dog in their home.

How do I get started?

You can apply online by viewing our current volunteer openings. Each listing includes a description and a direct link to apply. Because most of our volunteer roles are long-term, we only accept applications for positions that are currently available, and we don’t keep applications on file. We encourage you to check back often for new opportunities to join the Leader Dog community.

Don’t see an opening that fits your interests?

Share your interests through our volunteer interest form, and we’ll contact you when a role becomes available that’s a great fit.

How long before I can begin volunteering?

Volunteers typically get started as soon as their application is approved. Before you jump in, you’ll complete a few simple steps including a pre-screening process, an interview, and a background check. Once everything is wrapped up, we’ll reach out with your next steps and get you ready to begin.

After your paperwork is submitted, you’ll receive a welcome packet and access to our virtual volunteer orientation to help you feel confident and excited for your Leader Dog journey.

What are the benefits of volunteering at Leader Dog?

As a Leader Dog volunteer, you’ll enjoy a variety of meaningful benefits designed to support your experience and celebrate your impact. These include:

  • A deeply rewarding volunteer experience as part of the Leader Dogs for the Blind team
  •  The joy of knowing you’re making a meaningful difference in the lives of others
  • Opportunities to give back to your community in a hands-on, impactful way
  • The chance to build new skills through training and learning opportunities
  • A 15% discount in the Leader Dog gift shop
  • Invitations to special volunteer appreciation events
  • Discounts of up to 50% on select Purina pet products