Volunteer
Help Dogs Find Freedom
At Heart of the Carolinas Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry, we are dedicated to giving dogs the freedom and safety they deserve. Our volunteers come together to build fences that create secure, happy spaces for dogs who have spent too long on chains. Each fence we build is a chance for a dog to run, play, and experience life the way every dog should.
Join us and be part of the moment when a dog experiences freedom for the first time, running and playing in a safe, fenced space. Every volunteer helps make that joy possible, no matter your age or experience level.
We usually build on Saturdays at 9am, and no prior experience is needed — we provide all instruction and guidance, and some tasks require no skill at all. Families are welcome; children can join with a parent, or parents can sign a release for them.
Volunteer projects typically take 1–2 hours, and the day is filled with meaningful work, camaraderie, and fun. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet others who share your love of dogs, while directly making a difference in their lives.
To find the next volunteer day, check our website below or our Facebook page — the address will be provided. Look for our signs outside the house where we’ll be building to guide you in.
Our Next Fence Build
There’s a Job for Everyone…
No experience needed — we’ll show you exactly how.
Set Corner Posts
Before our Saturday volunteer day, the groundwork is laid by a small group of volunteers to set fence posts in cement to prepare the space for a safe and secure fence.
Cut Fencing
One of the first tasks is measuring and cutting the fencing, done together as a small group — one person measures, another cuts, and others help fold the pieces
Hammer T-Posts
Once a section is in place, our stronger (or just very enthusiastic!) volunteers step in to drive the T-posts, with plenty of help and cheering from the rest of the team.
Fence Ties
A favorite task for many all is attaching the fencing to the posts using wire ties — nimble hands are helpful here, and there’s always someone nearby to lend a hand.
U-Stakes
Another favorite task is hammering in the U-stakes to secure the fence along the ground, helping keep dogs safe and happy inside their new space.
Make Shade
One of the final tasks is placing a tarp over the doghouse — every dog receives one — providing shade and protection from the rain in their new space.
