VSDC's HenPals Volunteer Event

Join fellow [VSDC](www.vsdc.org)ers for a volunteer event with [HenPals Network](www.henpals.org) in Boyds, MD, helping them prepare their farm space for more hens!

HenPals Network is a nonprofit dedicated to giving ex-commercial hens a new beginning. HenPals rehomes commercial laying hens from large-scale farms into adoptive homes, providing an alternative to slaughter and helping these hens live out their lives in loving backyard homes. Since launching five months ago, HenPals has rehomed more than 1,200 hens across Maryland.

Every year, millions of laying hens in the U.S. reach the end of their commercial farming cycle at around 18 months old. HenPals is focused on changing that cycle, one hen and one adoptive home at a time.

During this volunteer day, we’ll be preparing additional areas of the barn so that HenPals can safely accommodate more hens. Projects will include clearing out barn spaces, cleaning existing chicken areas, and some light refurbishment and DIY work. This will be a hands-on, physical volunteer day. Due to the nature of the work, we ask that all volunteers be age 14 or older.

You’ll also have a chance to meet a few of the hens currently at the farm and learn more about HenPals Network, our rehoming program, and what life can look like for hens after leaving commercial egg production.

### What to bring

Please wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty. Some tasks may involve lifting, moving materials, mucking, sweeping, or other physical work. A few other things that may be helpful:

* A water bottle * Work gloves, if you have a pair you like to use * A hat and sunscreen if we’ll be working outside * Clothing appropriate for the weather

### A few things to know

This is a working farm environment, so please be prepared for dust, dirt, feathers, and the occasional chicken underfoot! We’ll provide guidance on the tasks and help make sure everyone knows what they’re doing. Please post your photos from the day