Central Oregon Wildlife Center Opens Youth Volunteer Program

Kids in Central Oregon can now roll up their sleeves and help save injured wildlife while learning about conservation in their own backyard.

Think Wild, the region's wildlife hospital and conservation center in Bend, just launched volunteer opportunities specifically designed for youth and families. The programs give kids as young as 8 a chance to contribute to real wildlife rescue and habitat restoration work.

Young volunteers will visit the wildlife hospital campus once or twice monthly to help prepare meals for animal patients, build enrichment activities, maintain pollinator gardens, and care for enclosures. The organization split sessions by age group so activities match kids' abilities and interests.

Children ages 8 to 13 meet on the last Saturday of each month from 1 to 2 pm year round. Teens ages 14 to 17 can choose between Wednesday afternoon sessions during spring and summer or Saturday morning meetups throughout the year.

For families who prefer at home projects, Think Wild provides plans and guidance for building native bird and bat boxes. Youth volunteers can also represent the organization at community events and even help transport injured wildlife to the hospital when accompanied by a parent.

One standout opportunity takes families into the Ochoco National Forest on July 12th to build beaver dam analogs. These hand built structures made from sticks and natural materials mimic real beaver dams and help restore wildlife habitats. The family friendly event runs from 9 am to 2 pm.

The Ripple Effect

This program does more than help one small nonprofit keep its doors open. By giving young people meaningful conservation work, Think Wild is nurturing the next generation of wildlife advocates and environmental stewards.

The hands on experience teaches kids that protecting nature isn't just about liking animals. It's about showing up, doing the work, and making tangible differences in their community.

Getting started is simple: families can fill out the youth volunteer application on Think Wild's website or email volunteer@thinkwildco.org to learn more about upcoming opportunities.

Central Oregon's youngest residents now have a real path to protect the wildlife they love.