Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Volunteers
Make a Real Difference for Big Cats
Your time and skills help us feed, shelter, and protect over 100 rescued exotic animals. Whether you have a weekend or the whole year, there is a place for you at Tiger Creek.
Volunteering at Tiger Creek offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of majestic big cats. As a volunteer, you'll be immersed in a dynamic environment where you can contribute to essential tasks such as habitat maintenance, animal care, and enrichment activities. Through first-hand experiences and guidance from our dedicated staff, you'll gain valuable insights into wildlife conservation and develop a profound connection with these extraordinary animals. Join us in our mission to protect and preserve endangered species and rehabilitate native wildlife for their eventual return to their native habitat!
Volunteer Commitment & Schedule
Commitment
Schedule
Training
Minimum of 60 hours per year.
Completely flexible. You choose your days and hours within sanctuary operating times. No rigid weekly schedule required.
All new volunteers attend an on site orientation covering safety protocols, operational procedures, and sanctuary rules.
Our Volunteer Opportunities
Important Notice
NO DIRECT CONTACT WITH ANIMALS.
Volunteers do not interact with, touch, or approach any exotic animals at Tiger Creek, including tigers, lions, and other big cats. All volunteer tasks are operational: food preparation, facility cleaning, grounds work, event support, and maintenance. Animals are always secured in separate areas during any volunteer activity near enclosures.
General Requirements
01
Application & Background Check
Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and able to pass a background check.
02
Commitment.
Minimum 60 hours per year. Your schedule is flexible, but consistency matters.
03
English Communication.
04
Negative TB Test.
Must be able to communicate in English for safety and coordination. Additional languages are a welcome bonus.
05
Orientation.
TB can be transmitted between humans and certain animal species. A negative test result is required before your first day.
All new volunteers attend an on site orientation session covering safety protocols, operational procedures, and sanctuary rules.
Ready to Get Started?
Complete our online application and a member of our volunteer coordination team will reach out to schedule your orientation.
Court Ordered Community Service
Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN: 34 18 27209) and qualifies as an approved community service site under Texas law. We work with the Smith County Community Supervision and Corrections Department (CSCD) and surrounding county probation offices to accept individuals fulfilling court ordered community service hours.
What to bring:
Court ordered community service form or probation officer referral, plus a valid government issued photo ID.
Hour tracking:
Sign in and out each visit. Tiger Creek staff verify and log all hours.
Verification:
Tiger Creek provides official verification on sanctuary letterhead for submission to your probation officer or the court. For staff in Smith County, Tiger Creek will log hours through their official reporting system.
Eligibility:
Individuals convicted of violent crimes, sex offenses, or crimes against animals may not be eligible. All placements are case by case.
Questions? Call 903.858.1008 or email volunteer@tigercreek.org
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For probation officers: Contact us at 903.858.1008 or volunteer@tigercreek.org for intake details and 501(c)(3) documentation.
