CURRENT OPEN POSITIONS & INTERNSHIPS

Become a part of our purpose. Together, we can make a difference.

STUDENT PUPPY RAISER -


*Currently open to students at UNC-Chapel Hill

ABOUT:

Puppy Raisers play a critical role in preparing our future service dogs. Beyond providing daily care, raisers help shape task-trained service dogs that will one day provide independence and support to children navigating complex medical needs. This includes foundational and disability-specific training, along with consistent exposure to a variety of environments.

Raisers are placed in full-time or co-raiser roles, supported by ongoing guidance and training from our team and trainers. Detailed expectations are reviewed during the interview process, and support is provided by our approved sitters when needed.

Ideal raisers are passionate about our mission, committed, patient, and eager to learn. We are seeking responsible and reliable applicants who are able to provide the consistency and structure that a service dog in training needs. This role is best suited for those who are excited to be a part of a highly rewarding experience that directly contributes to a life-changing partnership.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Current UNC Undergrad or Graduate Student (Recent grads also considered!)

  • Reside in an off-campus apartment/house 

  • Ability to commit to the duration of the scheduled term

  • Provide a stable and safe living environment

  • Have no conflicting pet situations

  • Be willing to learn and consistently follow training protocols

  • Prior experience with dogs encouraged

TO APPLY:  

-Complete the VOLUNTEER FORM below. This places you on our main list of UNC volunteers and is required for participation in the chapter. (Note: Updated forms for prior volunteers are needed as of August 2026)

-Complete the PUPPY RAISER APPLICATION below.

-Selected applicants will be invited to continue the process through interviews and hands-on evaluations to help ensure successful placements.

-*Please Note: UNC Students applying to become raisers do not need to submit a separate sitter form.


STUDENT PUPPY SITTER -


*Currently open to students at UNC-Chapel Hill

ABOUT:

Puppy Sitters are our “support system” for our raisers. We have a registry of approved sitters available for our raisers to choose from when they need care for the pup they are matched with.

Expectations and responsibilities of puppy sitters are similar to those listed above for raisers, but on a part-time basis and with less emphasis on training and public access. All sitters are supported by the guidance of our team and the raiser you are assisting.

TO APPLY:

-Complete the VOLUNTEER FORM below. This places you on our main list of UNC volunteers and is required for participation in the chapter. (Note: Updated forms for prior volunteers are needed as of August 2026)

-Complete the PUPPY SITTER APPLICATION below.

-Selected applicants will be provided with an orientation and added to our sitter registry.

FAMILY PUPPY RAISERS & SITTERS -


*Currently open to families/individuals local to Chapel Hill or surrounding areas

ABOUT:

Our Family Raisers play a foundational role in preparing our future service dogs. Beyond providing daily care, raisers help shape task-trained service dogs that will one day provide independence and support to children navigating complex medical needs. This includes foundational and disability-specific training, along with consistent exposure to a variety of environments.

This role is supported by ongoing guidance and training from our team and trainers. Ideal individuals or families are passionate about our mission and offer a household that provides commitment, patience, and structure. We love working with families who are excited to be part of our work and wish to contribute to a life-changing partnership.

In addition to raiser roles, we also have short-term sitting/foster opportunities available. This position typically entails providing support when needed for our family or student raisers, welcoming one of our Lux Pups into your home & your heart. Sitters are not expected to implement any new training that is not yet familiar to the puppy.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • Volunteer position as a Host family (or high school/college student living at home with support of family)

  • Reside near the Chapel Hill area

  • Short and long-term positions available

  • Flexible schedules preferred

  • Some experience encouraged …but not required!

  • Willingness to learn and follow training protocols consistently

  • Stable and safe living environment

  • Any pets in the home are dog-friendly!

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS FOR HIGH SCHOOL OR COLLEGE STUDENTS:

  • Documented volunteer hours with a 501(c)(3) nonprofit

  • Referrals & References

  • Internship Opportunities

TO APPLY:  

-Complete the Family Raiser/Sitter application below.

-Selected applicants will be invited to schedule an in-person or phone interview with our team.

ADDITIONAL ROLES & OPPORTUNITIES -


The following positions will be opening soon. Please feel free to email Jenna@LuxsPurpose.org if interested in specific roles.

  • Grant Writers, PR, & Social Media - We are expanding our teams in these areas and are soon opening positions to get more involved. Internships may be offered to volunteers.

  • Training Support - Experienced -OR- new trainers with an interest in our program. Build your training portfolio while supporting our purpose!