Several times during the year we gather to erect a fence for a lucky HOWS dog who will be chained no more! These un-chained dogs “zoom” around their new spaces, overcome with their new-found sense of freedom. You can be a part of the “zoomies”; no experience necessary. Come build a fence with us!

We often need assistance getting dog houses or lumber or fencing materials from Point A to Point B. If you have a truck, van, or trailer and would like to help us move “the big stuff” around, that would be awesome.

We love assistance with spreading the word! Lots of folks know about us, but lots do not. If you have ideas and the talent to get the good word of HOWS Project out there, we’re all ears!

Friendly Visits provide the member with short-term companionship. Visits can include conversations, reading to the member, playing games, respite time for a care provider, or perhaps a walk. The HSW Buddy program connects volunteers and members more regularly.

Volunteers can assist with minor home maintenance issues such as changing light bulbs, pet care, organizing cupboards or closets, watering plants, helping with minor repairs (leaking faucet, sticky door, etc.), and clearing snow from steps. Members pay for supplies.

Volunteers assisting with Thoughtful Foods pledge their culinary skills to help members needing warm, healthy meals during an unexpected stressful time for the member or their families. The foods are provided for only a short time, usually a few days and no more than two weeks.

This service includes volunteers running errands for a member who needs items picked up from–or taken to–a grocery store, hardware store, the post office, donation sites, a neighbor, etc. When necessary, volunteers may deliver food ordered from local restaurants.

Volunteers can assist with basic set-up, technical and user issues for computers, smartphones, tablets, DVDs, TV remotes, and internet services. Also, help with programmable devices such as light timers and small appliances is offered.

Round trip service to destinations as far east as Charlottesville and as far west as Fishersville. Typical destinations volunteers can serve include local social events, medical appointments and essentials such as groceries, hair appointment, or pharmaceutical needs.

CAYA has a long rewarding relationship with its volunteers. Volunteer support areas include: summer camp volunteers, mentorship, prison ministry, disaster relief, feed our homeless community, and donation processing.