Location: Berkeley, CA
Type: Hybrid (In-Office + Remote)
Reports to: Foster Manager
Pay Rate: Unpaid (course credit available)
Status: Part-Time Internship (10+ hours/week, 3+ months)
Make a Life-Saving Difference
At Berkeley Humane, every adoption is a new beginning. As a Foster Program Intern, you will help dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens move from shelter to loving homes. You will support foster families, strengthen our program, and play a direct role in saving lives. Your work helps animals find temporary homes, prepares them for adoption, and increases successful matches for both pets and people.
What You’ll Do
- Partner with the Foster Program Manager to support foster caregivers
- Maintain accurate foster records and animal information
- Coach foster caregivers and help lead training sessions
- Communicate with current and prospective foster families
- Support creation of marketing materials such as photos and videos
- Collaborate with behavior staff to support enrichment and care
- Assist with adoption events, transports, and community outreach
- Work with staff to create successful adoption matches
What You Bring
- Strong interpersonal skills with patience, empathy, and active listening
- Willingness to learn Microsoft Suite, Airtable, and other data reporting tools
- Experience or interest in animal behavior
- Basic familiarity with media tools
- Passion for animal welfare and helping pets find homes
You’re a Great Fit If You
- Believe foster care saves lives and builds stronger communities
- Are excited to use creativity to help animals get adopted
- Thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced, mission-driven environment
- Are organized, detail-oriented, and a team player
Requirements
- Commit at least 10 hours per week for 3+ months
- Comfortable learning new software
- Comfortable working with dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens
- Able to bend, stoop, squat, reach, and move moderately heavy objects
- No severe animal allergies
- Comfortable working with diverse communities
Why Berkeley Humane
Every foster home creates a pathway to adoption. In this role, your work directly helps animals leave the shelter and find families. You will gain hands-on experience in animal welfare, foster programs, and marketing while making a real impact.
TO APPLY
To apply, please download and complete a Foster Program Internship Application. Completed applications should be submitted with a cover letter and resume to foster@berkeleyhumane.org. Submission does not guarantee acceptance into the program.