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Do you have a passion for wildlife? Become a volunteer at a world-class rehabilitation centre where we help ill, injured and orphaned wildlife and educate the public on wildlife and environmental issues. GIVE-VOLUNTEER > Volunteer MAKE A DIFFERENCE: VOLUNTEER Volunteers make the world go 'round at NIWRA! What is the perfect role for you ? Gift Shop - Front Desk: located in the main building, this position is the first contact with our visitors. Volunteering in the Gift Shop is a great fit for someone who enjoys interacting with visitors and has previous retail and customer service experience. Education Program: have fun while you lead school and community groups on tours of the centre. This position is a great fit for those who enjoy interacting with visitors. Grounds and Yard: help our yard crew look after our meticulously manicured grounds. This position is a great fit for someone who likes working outside. Wildlife Garden Host: see to the needs of our Wildlife Garden's well-being and greet garden visitors. This position is a great fit for someone with a green thumb and who loves learning about plants. Animal Transport: we are always looking for volunteers to transport animals between other locations and our facility. Animal Care: volunteers who work in our Animal Care department do a variety of tasks to care for our animals and enclosures. Animal Care volunteers are often chosen from experienced education volunteers who have demonstrated a commitment to our programs and have logged hours being trained and mentored by our staff. We ask that prospective volunteers commit to one four-hour shift per week and are willing to get a Police Information Check. Join Our Team: Please email your completed application to wildlife@niwra.org Attention Joyce. You can also bring your application to NIWRA or mail to: North Island Wildlife Recovery Association Box 364, 1240 Leffler Rd., Errington, BC V0R 1V0 We appreciate all applications, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Download Application

GIVE/VOLUNTEER > Leaving a Gift to NIWRA in Your Will Leaving a Gift to NIWRA in Your Will It's easy. It won't cost you a thing. You can secure the future of wild animals for generations to come! A Gift to NIWRA in Your Will Saves Lives ! No matter the size of your estate, you can make a world of difference in the lives of Vancouver Island wildlife. Ready to Save Lives? Learn How We're Here to Help If you have already included NIWRA in your Will, or plan to do so, please call Joyce to arrange a visit so we can thank you in person. Joyce Lee Executive Director 250-248-8534 ext 4 joyce.lee@niwra.org Charitable Business Number: 11906 0549 RR0001

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GIVE/VOLUNTEER > Animal Care Internship Animal Care Internship Join The Team Fun! Exciting! Rewarding! Animal Care Internship (Full-time, Spring & Summer unpaid position) The Organization: North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, a world-class wildlife rehabilitation centre, located in Errington, on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, cares for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife, and educates the public on wildlife and environmental issues. The Position: The North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) Intern will enjoy a unique opportunity to be part of a team supporting the work of a world class wildlife rehabilitation and education facility. The NIWRA intern will further their own growth by learning, sharing and applying new skills that enhance daily operations at the Centre. Open to both international and local applicants Position requires an eight-week minimum work period Accommodation is a large RV onsite with kitchen, shower and access to laundry Duties: Volunteers and interns are the backbone of our organization. The position works under the direction and support of the Animal Care staff. It includes enclosure cleaning, food preparation (raw meat is processed and fed so no weak stomachs allowed!), feeding, laundry, participating in maintenance projects and interacting and educating visitors. There is no standard workday in wildlife rehabilitation, which creates a stimulating and interesting opportunity. Provide excellent care to all non-releasable and rehabilitation animals Assist with evaluating patient progress and release eligibility Assist with restraint, exams and treatment of animals Admit patients and accurately complete associated paperwork Occasionally assist with euthanasia Maintain high standards of cleanliness in hospital, kitchen and animal housing areas Requirements: This rewarding position requires a mature person that works well within a team and independently and can readily adapt to changing circumstances. It is physically demanding and requires attention to detail. Must be able to communicate fluently in English Must be at least 19 years of age Must have medical insurance Must have a Tetanus vaccination Must be able to work in all weather conditions Must be able to lift/carry up to 50 lbs (work is quite physical and moderately labour intensive) Must be able to work 5 days a week, days off may or may not be consecutive Must be willing to work flexible shifts depending on needs Must be reliable and dependable Previous wildlife rehabilitation or animal handling experience is an asset, but not strictly required INTERNSHIPS ARE STRICTLY VOLUNTEER POSITIONS. YOU WILL NOT BE PAID ANY MONIES OR EXPENSES, BUT YOU WILL RECEIVE ACCOMMODATIONS IF YOU ARE FROM OUT-OF-TOWN. (You may have to share accommodations with another intern.) Extra days off: We are willing to be flexible to work with your schedule, however your commitment is to volunteer your time 5 days a week with 2 days off. Requesting extra days off puts a strain on our schedule. Shifts are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm or 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm. You must supply your own food. If you are NOT a Canadian Citizen, you must have financial means/credit card/cash in case you need to go to a medical clinic. North Island Wildlife Recovery Association will not be responsible for medical expenses. Internships are a minimum eight weeks or more in length. View Printable Format To apply: Please email cover letter, availability dates, resume, 2 references and at least one letter of recommendation to wildlife@niwra.org Attention Joyce Lee . Please write Animal Care Intern Position in the subject line. We appreciate all applications, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. We reserve the right to close the vacancies early depending on the number of applications received, so encourage you to submit your details as soon as possible if you are interested.

The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre would not be possible without the generous support of donors, volunteers, and a small staff of animal care workers and office personnel. Give & Volunteer Make a Gift to Wildlife Today Your donation helps us care for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife. Send an e-Transfer Make a General Donation Donate Securities Donate Online CanadaHelps allows small charities like us to accept secure donations online. Donate instantly. Send an e-Transfer to: wildlife@niwra.org Download Form (PDF) Please download, print and complete our donation form. Then mail it, along with your payment, to us at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. Tax receipts will be provided for donations of $10 or more. Donate by Mail Leave Your Wildlife Legacy A charitable bequest is a form of planned giving: a deferred or future gift described in a donor’s will. Such gifts allow us to initiate projects otherwise beyond our reach while providing you with immediate and long-term tax advantages. Learn More View Our Amazon Wishlist View Our Wishlist We gratefully accept non-cash donations as well as Amazon purchases of our Wishlist items. Please contact NIWRA administration prior to donating if you would like a tax receipt to see if your donation qualifies. Our Wishlist Donors wishing to see a copy of our financial statements are asked to contact our office. Volunteer at the Centre At North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, we couldn’t operate without our amazing volunteers. We’d love to welcome you to the team! Contact us if your passions include: working at a gift shop education (being a tour guide, 'Ask Me' Ambassador) wildlife gardens grounds and yard maintenance animal care Learn More Green Teen Youth Docent Program Our Green Teens are passionate about wildlife and want to inspire others to learn about wild animals and their environments. Are you between 12 & 18? Are you looking for a great summer experience? Do you want to meet people from all over the world? Learn More Become a Student Intern (Spring & Summer) Interns receive hands-on training and experience at a wild animal rehabilitation and education centre and provide support to staff. We are on the lookout for individuals interested in an internship involving animal rehabilitation and care Learn More Adopt an Animal Your 'symbolic' adoption of an animal that is unable to return to the wild provides: food medical care & annual check-ups “toys” to enrich and stimulate natural behaviours Give the gift of a symbolic adoption to the animal lover in your life: birthday or Christmas gifts any special occasion View Adoption Animals in Shop NOTE: No government funding is available, so your support is critical. Purchase "Bear Shares" Bear Shares are important to us because: ~$40 per day is needed to meet the needs of one bear that arrives at the centre bears usually spend several months with us until they can be released we’ve had as many as 22 bears in one season! donations are our sole source of funding to care for the bears Purchase Bear Shares in Shop Live Nearby? Purchase an Annual Pass Adult | $45 Purchase in Shop Child | $18 Purchase in Shop Mail Order Download Form

VISIT > Services & Facilites Services & Facilities Wheelchairs/Access Our paths are graveled and wheelchair accessible. Two wheelchairs are available for visitor use at no charge. Caregivers A caregiver accompanying a disabled person who requires assistance receives FREE entry. Participant in the Easter Seal Access 2 Card program. Parking Parking is free. Reserved parking spots for the disabled are available in the main lot near the entrance. Gift Shop Bear Den Gifts is open daily and features unique clothing, wildlife & nature books, and other unique souvenirs to remember your visit. Washrooms Washrooms are wheelchair accessible and have one baby changing station. They are located in the Eagle Flight Enclosure building. Picnic/Play Areas Picnic areas with tables and benches are scattered around the grounds for your enjoyment. The Field of Stones playground is located near the Wildlife Garden and picnic areas.

VISIT > Group Visit Request So much to see and learn! Bring your group for a day of discovery, connection, and shared experiences. Whether you’re visiting with a school, organization, or team, we’ll help you plan a smooth and memorable group visit tailored to your interests. Begin by downloading the Group Visit Trip Planner . (It is required reading for your Group Visit Request below.) Group Visit Request Type of Tour Requested* Guided Self-Guided Name of Group and Location* Name of Trip Organizer* Trip Organizer's Email* Name of Leader in Charge* Phone Number of Leader in Charge* Total Number of Adults/Seniors* Minimum 15 to maximum 45 Total Number of Children* Children 12 &under require one adult for every 5 students. Children 13+ require one adult for every 10-15 students. Age(s) of visiting children* Will you need bus parking?* Yes No Requested Tour Date* Second Choice for Tour Date* Preferred Tour Start Time* Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your start time. Departure Time from NIWRA* Your Payment Type* Cheque Debit Credit Card Please notify us of any special needs your participants have and how you will support them while onsite.* Mark n/a if this does not apply. Do you have any additional questions or information to share with us? REQUIRED: Read and check the following statements to acknowledge roles and responsibilities. I UNDERSTAND that my tour is not confirmed but has been submitted as a request. NIWRA administration will contact me with confirmation that my tour is scheduled and any required volunteer tour guides have been requested. * I UNDERSTAND that Adults and Parents are responsible for the supervision of children/students before, during and after the tour. * I UNDERSTAND that it is my responsibility to call NIWRA if we are going to arrive more than 10 minutes late. * I have read and agree to the terms above. * I have read and agree to the terms detailed in the Group Visit Trip Planner. * Submit Your Group Visit Request

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Do you have a passion for wildlife? Become a Green Teen Youth Docent at a world-class rehabilitation centre where we help ill, injured and orphaned wildlife and educate the public on wildlife and environmental issues. GIVE/VOLUNTEER > Green Teens GREEN TEEN YOUTH DOCENT VOLUNTEER PROGRAM Requirements and How to Apply Applicant Requirements: Must be between 12 - 18 years of age and must complete and submit a Green Teen Volunteer Application (download) and Parent Agreement (will be provided to successful applicants) Applicants and a parent/guardian must be able to attend an interview and orientation/meet and greet session Successful applicants must attend all orientation and training sessions Provide own transportation to and from NIWRA and offsite events Commit to volunteering at least thirty (30) hours during the season of March - August For Parents and Guardians: Our Volunteer Green Teen Docent Program involves the whole family. Committing to the minimum hours will require your assistance, cooperation, support, encouragement and transportation. Volunteers unable to meet the standards may be asked to leave the program. How to Apply: Download the application form Complete all sections of the application form and email to education@niwra.org You can also bring your application to NIWRA or mail to: North Island Wildlife Recovery Association Box 364, 1240 Leffler Rd., Errington, BC V0R 1V0 Download Application

Robin & Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife 2025 Recipients Announced The Robin & Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife is awarded annually to five university students pursuing careers in wildlife conservation and environmental conservation. These recipients exemplify passion, excellence, and dedication in their studies and future goals. The scholarship is designed to support and recognize emerging leaders who are committed to preserving our planet’s wildlife and natural ecosystems. Meet The 2025 Recipients Meghan MacIsaac Meghan currently works as NIWRA’s summer wildlife garden caretaker and has been a volunteer in NIWRA’s wildlife garden since 2018. She has over a decade of experience within the biotechnology and manufacturing fields. Since moving to the Island from the mainland in 2017, Meghan has set her focus on the environmental field and furthering her education in Environmental Practice, where she is now halfway through working towards her Master’s. Meghan holds a BSc in biology and certified in environmental monitoring from the University of Northern British Columbia. She also volunteers for Save Estuary Land Society and loves to garden and learning about plants! Jayden Emery Wildlife conservation has been a lifelong passion for Jayden, beginning in childhood as she explored the creek behind her home in the Comox Valley and participated in programs like Earth Rangers and Scouts. After moving to Nanoose Bay, her dedication to the environment led her to begin volunteering with the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre in 2019, where she has since grown into the role of a youth mentor in the Green Teen program. She has also brought her environmental values into her current workplace, contributing to sustainability efforts through their programs. Currently, she is employed by RLC Park Services at Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls, where she conducts park patrols. At the same time, she is studying in the Resource Management Officer Technology diploma program at Vancouver Island University, with plans to complete a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Protection by 2027. As she builds her career in environmental conservation, her focus remains on giving back to the Oceanside community that has supported her along the way. She looks forward to the opportunities the future holds. Laura Kennedy Laura has harbored a deep love for animals since childhood, having grown up surrounded by dogs and cats and frequently watching documentaries about large carnivores such as wolves and lions. Her fascination with wild animals was sparked during a visit to Toronto, where she observed a raccoon family on a rooftop—an experience that left a lasting impression. This passion for nature led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Geography at the University of Calgary. Driven by a desire to support local wildlife, she later enrolled in a Master’s program at Royal Roads University, where she is currently conducting a post-release monitoring study of rehabilitation-reared raccoons. Her research focuses on collecting preliminary data regarding the survival, movement patterns, and causes of mortality among orphaned raccoons. The goal is to inform best practices that improve the survival rates of juveniles released back into the wild. As urbanization, habitat loss, and climate change continue to increase the frequency and complexity of human-wildlife interactions, the field of wildlife rehabilitation is gaining importance. Grounded in the welfare of individual animals—caring for the sick, orphaned, and injured—it also emphasizes education and advocacy, providing broader benefits for animal ecology, conservation, and human-wildlife coexistence. Laura remains committed to promoting urban wildlife coexistence and conflict mitigation, as well as fostering public support for wild animal welfare and urban conservation initiatives. She also intends to continue volunteering or working in wildlife rehabilitation and to stay actively involved in local habitat restoration projects. Carys E. Hughes Carys is entering her second year as a student at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. She hopes to find opportunities as a future vet to work in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation with a focus on veterinary medicine and education. Raised in Nova Scotia, Carys relocated to Vancouver Island in 2019 with her family to pursue university studies. Naturally falling in love with this beautiful island, she now calls Nanaimo home. While studying at the University of Victoria, she participated in a practicum at the BC SPCA Wild Animal Rehabilitation Centre, earning a certificate from the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council. After completing a Bachelor of Science degree in 2023, she travelled to Australia to gain further experience in wildlife rehabilitation, working on an island in Queensland caring for and releasing injured sea turtles. Carys has benefited from opportunities over the past five years to study, work and volunteer in marine science research and in aquaculture in British Columbia and Alberta. Carys is a member of several clubs at vet school in Saskatchewan, including the Wildlife Disease Association and the Wild and Exotic Animal Medicine Club. One of her favourite activities last year was capturing, banding and releasing Saw-Whet Owls. She is currently working at a local vet clinic in Nanaimo for the summer, learning about small animal veterinary practices. These varied experiences have cemented Carys’s passion to build a career and volunteer path in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, both on Vancouver Island and internationally. Donald Miller Donald Miller is a recent graduate of the Resource Management Officer Technology diploma program at Vancouver Island University and is continuing his education by pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Natural Resource Protection at the same institution. He is sincerely grateful for this award, which will greatly support his efforts and passion for conservation. He is currently working in Valemount, BC as an Aquatic Invasive Species Inspector with the Conservation Officer Service of BC , where he helps ensure that all watercraft entering BC are thoroughly inspected to prevent the spread of invasive species by both commercial and recreational vessels.

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HOME > Robin and Sylvia Campbell Scholarship to Benefit Wildlife (2026) The Scholarship: North Island Wildlife Recovery Association will award five $2,000 scholarships to post-secondary students and five $1000 scholarships to high school students in in the summer of 2026. Scholarship recipients shall also receive a one-year membership to North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. Are You Eligible to Apply? Are you currently a full-time student registered in one of the following?: a high school in SD69 or SD68 graduating in 2026
 post-secondary (undergraduate or college) program
 graduate degree program
 diploma program Are you enrolled in full-time studies that benefit wildlife? Examples include the study of animal care, biology/ecology, coastal/marine studies, earth science/geology, environmental studies/education, natural resource protection, resource management, veterinary medicine OR other studies that directly benefit wildlife. Are you a Canadian citizen who previously lived or currently lives on Vancouver Island? If you answered 'Yes' to all 3 questions, then we welcome your application. How Will Your Application Be Evaluated? Applications will be judged on: the relevance of the post-secondary academic program in which you are enrolled your transcript and the level of excellence demonstrated in relevant subject areas [High school applicants only] your involvement in volunteer and extra-curricular activities that demonstrate their dedication to wildlife and/or the environment. Five Steps to a Successful Application Download Scholarship Application form Download Reference Request form Download and complete the Scholarship Application form . Write a 400-500 word personal statement describing your educational and career goals as you see them now. Include a current resume that details your education, work experience, honours and awards, extracurricular events and/or community activities, and employment. Provide copies of post-secondary transcripts . High school students : Provide proof of acceptance into a post-secondary program. Download and print 2 copies of the Reference Request form . Include two sealed letters of recommendation that address your academic achievement and potential for success in your post-secondary studies. (**Instructions are provided in the Scholarship Application form.) Mail* or hand-deliver your completed application package with the 5 required components to: Joyce Lee, Executive Director North Island Wildlife Recovery Association Box 364, 1240 Leffler Rd., Errington, BC V0R 1V0 wildlife@niwra.org Application Deadline: April 15, 2026 *NOTE: If you choose to send your application via Canada Post, you are encouraged to track your package so you can ensure it arrives by the deadline. Late entries will not be considered.

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Seeking an experienced Animal Care Manager to oversee daily operations, staff supervision, and animal welfare at our facility. Animal Care Manager Join Our Team! Animal Care Manager Job Posting Salary Range: $65,000.00 - $75,000.00 (CDN) The North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA) seeks an Animal Care Manager to join our team. Based in Errington on beautiful Vancouver Island, NIWRA is a well-established, non-profit, registered charity focused on the rehabilitation of injured, ill and orphaned wildlife and public education on wildlife and environmental issues. Reporting to the Senior Director of Operations, the Animal Care Manager will lead the animal care team in delivering exceptional care to wildlife patients and permanent residents. This role is essential in supporting our facility's programs, operation, development and integrity. What We're Looking For We seek a confident, experienced manager and leader who communicates effectively, demonstrates professional maturity, and thrives in a dynamic, purpose-driven environment. While a background in wildlife rehabilitation or conservation is a definite asset, it’s not essential—we’re ready to train the right person who brings a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and a deep commitment to animal care. Key Responsibilities Wildlife Care: Supervise, support, and mentor the animal care team Collaborate with NIWRA’s wildlife veterinarian and the Ministry of Environment Oversee wildlife intakes, treatment, and rehabilitation Follow established treatment protocols and diet plans Lead and grow our Black Bear Rehabilitation Program Manage wildlife transport between rehab centres Ensure the safety and well-being of both the centre's wildlife and the visiting public Oversee ongoing care for both rehabilitation patients and permanent residents Facility & Program Support: Help maintain the high expectations of the centre's leadership Provide daily motivation to staff to follow animal care protocol, safety techniques (animal & public) and time management, following the centre's policy and procedure manuals Maintain accurate records, files, and reporting for management and the Board of Directors Working with staff, provide multimedia content (stories, videos) for social media and promotional use Ensure facility cleanliness and adherence to health and safety protocols Recruit, train, and supervise animal care staff, volunteers, and interns Oversee the Discover Bear Program and educational bird presentations Who You Are Key Attributes: Mature judgment, integrity, and professionalism Strong interpersonal and team-building skills Passionate about wildlife care Physically fit and comfortable in hands-on animal care role Willingness to be hands-on in learning all aspects of wildlife rehabilitation Education & Experience: 3+ years of proven and relevant management/supervisory experience Proven ability to lead teams and manage challenging or sensitive situations Required Skills: Highly organized and adaptable to changing priorities Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving abilities Strong verbal and written communication across all organizational levels Capable of working independently and under pressure Flexible availability, including for emergencies Technically proficient with Microsoft Office and digital tools Why Join NIWRA? Be part of a mission-driven organization making a real impact on wildlife Work with a supportive, values-based team in a unique environment Enjoy a competitive salary and extended health benefits Live and work on beautiful Vancouver Island, surrounded by nature North Island Wildlife Recovery Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences. To apply for this position, please respond by email to Joyce Lee, Executive Director at wildlife@niwra.org citing NIWRA - Animal Care Manager in the subject line. Please submit a cover letter, resume and two professional references (with contact phone numbers). Detail your experience and qualifications, and outline why you are interested in this position. We would like to thank all applicants. However, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.