Volunteers
We are very proud of the fact that we are run by 100% Volunteers. We have zero paid staff.
Our volunteers provide an invaluable service by donating their time and talents to ensure that the birds under our care receive the best care possible and a second chance at freedom. When a call is received by our dispatcher, critical information is gathered about the location, type of bird, and health status. This information is then relayed to a rescue team member to catch and transport the bird to the center for evaluation, medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Volunteers receive hands-on training and experience working with the Coastal Bend’s native and migratory birds. In addition to our specially trained volunteers responsible for rescue, care and release of wild birds, we need help with incoming call support, assistance with fundraising activities, public appearances and the day-to-day operations and upkeep of our facilities and grounds.
Dispatchers: Manage the Center's incoming calls regarding injured/sick birds and collect critical information for rescue team and Avian Care
Avian Rescuer & Transportation: Safely catch and transport injured and sick birds, specialized training is required. Volunteers are also needed for transportation only.
Avian Baby Fosterers: Care for abandoned baby birds in your home.
Avian Care/Intake: Perform initial exam of rescued wild birds. Also provides care and feeding of wild birds while rehabbing
Avian Care Support: Cares and feeds wild birds in rehab
Facilities Upkeep Support: Perform care and maintenance of the Center's grounds, buildings and enclosures
Facilities Upkeep & Construction: Performs more in depth work that may need a licenses for permitted projects.
Fundraising and Special Events Committee Members: Participates in planning and execution of fundraising initiatives, including special donation requests, events and grant submissions
Requirements to volunteer:
-
Be over 18 years of age.
-
Persons 14-16 years of age may volunteer however they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Persons 16-18 years old, may volunteer with parental consent and waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
-
Must provide a current photo identification
-
Must have own transportation
-
Must be a team player as well as able to work unsupervised
-
Most important have a love for Wild Birds
For those interested in volunteering for Raptor care;
It looks like fun to handle our Ambassadors and rescued Raptors, but it is a position that requires training so that you and the birds don't receive injuries at your hand. Time, patience and a strong commitment is necessary for these positions.
​
Rehabbing raptors, require specialized training through IWRC, NWRA or another TPWD approved academy specifically for advanced raptor rehabilitation. The course fees are paid for by the volunteers. Wings does not reimburse, nor do we cover any course expenses you incur. There will also be an apprenticeship under a certified rehabber/handler before you are able to perform intakes on any raptor.
