Looking for a new extra-curricular to put on your radar? Our Educational Consultants are here to help! We’re up-to-date on all the different extra-curricular activities students can participate in and can’t wait to share them with our clients. Check out our newest extra-curricular feature below.
Vancouver Rabbit Rescue and Advocacy: Vancouver
Vancouver Rabbit Rescue and Advocacy (VRRA) is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to the care, shelter, and advocacy of domestic rabbits. Incorporated in 2003 as a non-profit British Columbia society, VRRA later became a federally registered charity and, in 2009, became the Vancouver chapter of the House Rabbit Society.
VRRA is run entirely by volunteers who share a commitment to improving outcomes for rabbits that are often overlooked in traditional animal welfare spaces. The organization focuses on rescue and rehabilitation, public education, and long-term advocacy for responsible rabbit care.
Why Rabbit Advocacy Matters
While dogs and cats are often the focus of animal rescue efforts, rabbits are frequently misunderstood and neglected. Many rabbits are surrendered or abandoned due to a lack of awareness about their care needs, lifespan, and behaviour. VRRA exists to address this gap through hands-on rescue work and education. The organization regularly takes in rabbits that are older, have medical needs, or are considered difficult to adopt, ensuring they receive appropriate veterinary care, enrichment, and long-term support.
What VRRA Does
VRRA supports rabbits through a combination of shelter care, foster placements, and community outreach. The organization operates two shelters, one on the west side of Vancouver and the other in South Surrey (White Rock). Both facilities provide secure indoor housing and daily access to outdoor exercise space. Foster homes are also used for rabbits requiring medical recovery, behavioural support, or additional socialization. VRRA’s work is funded through a mix of donations and proceeds from product sales, with volunteers often contributing time and resources beyond formal funding.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers play a central role in VRRA’s day-to-day operations.
Cage Cleaner (Approximately 2 hours)
Shifts:
- Morning: starting around 9:30 a.m.
- Afternoon: starting around 12:30 p.m.
Responsibilities include:
- Moving rabbits from cages to outdoor pens
- Replacing soiled newspaper and litter
- Sweeping hay and droppings
- Refreshing water and hay
Experience handling rabbits is strongly preferred for this role.
Pen Cleaner (Approximately 2 hours)
Shifts: Flexible start between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., ending by 5:00 p.m.
Responsibilities include:
- Cleaning outdoor exercise pens
- Replacing water and refilling hay racks
No prior experience is required.
Greens Feeder (Approximately 15 minutes)
Shift: 7:00 p.m.
Responsibilities include:
- Feeding fresh greens (lettuce and parsley) to shelter rabbits
No experience is required.
Skills Gained
Volunteering with VRRA offers practical experience in:
- Animal care and welfare
- Shelter operations
- Responsibility and reliability
- Working within a volunteer-run organization
For students interested in veterinary science, animal behaviour, biology, or community service, VRRA provides consistent, hands-on exposure in a real-world setting.
How to Get Involved
VRRA is always looking for committed volunteers to help maintain clean, enriching environments for their rabbits. Many volunteers begin with cleaning roles and gradually learn to handle and socialize rabbits as they gain experience. Students and community members interested in volunteering can learn more and apply by completing the volunteer form available through VRRA’s website.
Why This Experience Matters
Volunteering at VRRA directly supports animal welfare while addressing an often-overlooked need within the rescue community. It is a meaningful way to contribute locally, build responsibility, and gain experience that reflects compassion, consistency, and community engagement.
If you’re interested in discovering more extracurricular options, be sure to check out our other features under the Fun topic on the blog. And, if you’re looking for guidance on which activities can boost your resume in preparation for university applications, feel free to reach out to us and chat with one of our educational consultants. We’d love to help you find the perfect extracurricular that aligns with your goals and passions!
