Have you ever wanted to turn your time on the road into a direct lifeline for wildlife? The Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (OTCC) is calling on compassionate drivers across the province to become vital “Turtle Taxi” volunteers. In this unique role, you will provide the crucial transportation link that brings injured turtles from their rescue location to our veterinary hospital in Peterborough for life-saving medical care. No prior experience with turtles is needed just a reliable vehicle, a valid licence, and a desire to help Ontario’s native wildlife.
About the Ontario Turtle Conservation Centre (OTCC)
The OTCC is a charitable organization dedicated to the conservation of Ontario’s native turtle species through treatment and rehabilitation of injured turtles, public education, and research. We operate a wildlife hospital that admits over 1,500 injured turtles annually. Our work is made possible by a network of dedicated volunteers and partners who believe in protecting these important reptiles for future generations. By joining our Turtle Taxi team, you become an integral part of a compassionate community effort to preserve biodiversity.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Turtle Taxi Driver, you will be a key link in the rescue chain. Your role involves:
- Responding to email alerts for transport requests when your schedule and route allow.
- Safely transporting an injured turtle (secured in an enclosed, provided container) from a designated pickup point to either the OTCC in Peterborough or a hand-off point to another volunteer driver for long-distance relays.
- Following simple protocols for the safe transport of the animal without needing to handle it directly.
- Enabling life-saving medical care by ensuring the turtle reaches our hospital as quickly as possible.
Volunteer Requirements
We welcome volunteers from all over Ontario who meet the following criteria:
- Hold a valid driver’s licence with a clean record and have current vehicle insurance.
- Have access to a reliable personal vehicle.
- Are comfortable commuting to pickup/drop-off locations, which may be local or along your regular travel routes.
- Are at least 18 years of age.
This is a highly flexible, ongoing opportunity. You are only contacted when a transport need arises along a route you might travel. There is no fixed schedule you choose which trips you can accept based on your availability. Whether you live near Peterborough or elsewhere in the province, your willingness to drive can make all the difference.
Why Volunteer With Us?
Volunteering as a Turtle Taxi Driver is a deeply rewarding experience. You will gain:
- The profound satisfaction of directly contributing to wildlife conservation and saving an animal’s life.
- The flexibility to volunteer on your own schedule, with no minimum time commitment.
- Connection to a community of like-minded individuals passionate about nature and animal welfare.
- The knowledge that your time and vehicle are providing an absolutely essential service that our hospital cannot operate without.
- Salary Ranges 17$ per hr depends on experience
How to Express Your Interest
If you are ready to help give injured turtles a second chance, we would be thrilled to have you on our team.
To join our network of Turtle Taxi Drivers, please express your interest through the OTCC’s official volunteer platform or website. By confirming your interest, you will be added to our confidential email list for transport requests. You can also learn more by visiting our website at www.ontarioturtle.ca or by calling 705-741-5000.
Every mile you drive brings hope. Sign up today and help us steer turtles toward recovery.
