Why We NDA – A Statement from Project Shelterlight

At Project Shelterlight, we believe in the power of compassionate, ethical collaboration. When we offer support to shelters, staff, or partner organizations, we do so with clear expectations, rooted in trust, transparency, and the shared goal of protecting both animals and people.

From time to time, we may request a signed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) before stepping into formal or informal volunteer roles. This isn’t about hiding the truth—it’s about protecting it. It’s about creating a safe and respectful foundation where meaningful work can thrive.

We use NDAs for a few simple reasons:

  1. To protect the people and animals who are most vulnerable.
    We’ve seen what happens when systems lose sight of accountability. The burden falls on the dogs, the burned-out staff, and the communities left in the dark.

  2. To ensure that transparency is never treated as a threat.
    We don’t believe in working behind closed doors or silencing those who speak up with care. Good work can withstand good questions.

  3. To build real partnerships, not one-sided ones.
    A Project Shelterlight NDA outlines boundaries, expectations, and mutual respect. It helps everyone know where they stand, and what they can count on.

  4. To prevent retaliation for doing the right thing.
    If someone is raising concerns for the good of the dogs or their coworkers, they deserve protection, not punishment. We stand with them.

We’re here to help in whatever way is needed—whether that means building a volunteer team, drafting operating procedures, or just rolling up our sleeves to clean kennels. Our support is hands-on, heartfelt, and always offered with humility.

But we also believe in accountability. If care is being neglected—whether for the dogs, the people doing the work, or the trust of the community—we won’t stand by quietly. That doesn’t mean we’re here to shame or tear down. It means we believe we can all do better when we’re honest about where we’re falling short.

We don’t draw hard lines to keep people out—we draw them to protect what matters most. We show up to help—but always with integrity, and always with the hope that we’re building something stronger, together.

A copy of our standard NDA is available upon request. We’re happy to provide it in advance so everyone enters the conversation with clarity and confidence.