Volunteer Opportunities with VIK9 AHSS
Why Volunteer?
People with disabilities or disabling conditions work hard each day to enjoy a basic quality of life. VIK9 AHSS supports these individuals through Canine Assisted Human Services—using trained Service Dogs and Support Dogs. Volunteers are essential to our mission and help us build strong, effective programs.
Interested in volunteering? Start today!
What Are Canine Assisted Human Service Dogs?
VIK9 AHSS trains Service Dogs and CAI/CIT Support Dogs.
Service Dogs:
- Task-trained for one individual
- Considered medical devices protected by Human Rights law
- Not shared between multiple people
CAI/CIT Support Dogs:
- Support multiple individuals or groups
- Task-trained similarly to Mental Health Service Dogs
- Provide interventions like noticing stress, interrupting triggers, and offering comfort
- Not “therapy dogs” (the term is obsolete)
Teamwork Matters
A strong Not For Profit/Charity relies on committed volunteers with diverse skills, interests, and availability. Every volunteer supports our mission and helps us serve clients effectively.
Browse the volunteer positions below, then email info@vik9.ca to let us know you are interested in making the world a better place with VIK9 AHSS!
Volunteer Board Positions
Some positions are vacant or filled by members wearing multiple hats. Meetings are typically 1–1.5 hours monthly, and workloads vary. We currently have some openings that might interest you
Volunteer Committee Members
Directors may form committees of volunteers with relevant skills to support specific responsibilities.
Quality Assurance Officer
This independent role ensures quality service by:
- Investigating issues
- Documenting findings
- Recommending improvements
- Ensuring follow‑up occurs
Advisors
Advisors provide professional or pro‑bono expertise to help guide Board decisions. Expertise is welcome in all areas including: Accounting, Law, Marketing, Human Health, Animal Health, and building NFP/Charity strengths.
Volunteer Coordinator
Helps recruit, screen, and place volunteers in suitable roles while supporting them throughout their time with the Society.
Office Assistant
Supports staff with cleaning, organizing, preparing materials, and maintaining training/kennel spaces.
Recruitment, Networking & Public Speaking
Represents VIK9 AHSS at community events, answers questions, networks with organizations, and helps attract volunteers and clients.
Fundraising Support
Assists the Marketing Director and Board with planning and carrying out fundraising initiatives and events.
Grant Writer
Researches and drafts grant applications, coordinates with the Board, and tracks grant progress. A role that may grow into a paid position.
Technical Helper
Website content management and more. Ask us for details.
Operational Canine Roles
Retired service dogs or suitable pets may be trained for CAI/CIT work. Owners may volunteer or receive a maintenance allowance from their dog’s work.
Dog Maintenance Support
Assist with dog walking, grooming, play dates, and routine care—an excellent entry point for new volunteers.
Fosters
Provide day‑to‑day care, training, and supervision of dogs. Fosters support the dog’s development into a Service or Support role.
Rehabilitation Support
Support dogs recovering from injury or neglect under veterinarian guidance. Goal: return to service/support work or prepare for ethical rehoming.
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Dog Trainers / Testers
Assist with puppy training, obedience, task work, public access, and facility-based support training when fosters need additional help.
Service Dog Team Support Trainers / Mentors
Help clients prepare for Level 2 and Level 3 certifications and provide ongoing support with public access and task training.
Support Dog Handlers
Trained volunteers who safely handle Support Dogs in clinics, schools, and other environments while maintaining professionalism and safety.
CAHS Handlers
Volunteers with additional mental-health related training support:
- Service Dogs in training
- Clients with mental health conditions
- CIT dogs
May later join Mental Health Response Teams (future paid roles).
Next Steps
Upon approval of your application, you’ll be asked to take the following steps:
Criminal Record Check
All volunteers are required to complete a Criminal Record Check every two years. Certain volunteers will also be required to have the Vulnerable Persons Criminal Record Check done, too.
VIK9 AHSS will provide a waiver letter to cover the cost.
Protective Documentation
Volunteers are required to sign a Non‑Disclosure Agreement and Agreement with our Codes, Policies, and Procedures..
Volunteers may also help provide feedback as new policies are developed.
Membership
Volunteers are required to join VIK9 AHSS.