Question: Our breed club is looking for a simple service project that we can do for the Hawaiian Humane Society.

We're all so busy but want to do a little something to help. Any suggestions?

Answer: The society is running a new pet toy drive so that all animals adopted between Dec. 1 and Jan. 15 can go to their new homes with a few gifts from caring animal lovers.

If each person in your club simply e-mailed friends and family, asking them to purchase a pet toy the next time they picked up pet food or visited the veterinarian, your club could easily raise a sack full of toys for the animals.

The collection drive could also encourage friends to clean out their homes for the new year.

We have a long wish list that includes shoe boxes, newspapers and clean towels. It's posted at hawaiianhumane.org.

Items may be dropped off at any time of day.

Q: If some of us want to volunteer on a one-time basis, is that allowed? I had heard that the Humane Society requires a once-a-week commitment and a certain number of hours for volunteers.

A: We put no requirements on a gift of time and talents.

Shelter volunteers are encouraged to make a regular contribution of days and hours, but that is not a requirement to be involved.

Groups frequently help out on special projects, and we are always seeking volunteers who can take on a specific initiative. For example, a group could help with the upcoming fundraiser, “;Pictures with Santa Paws,”; on Dec. 6 and 7. Other ideas include an afternoon stroll through Moiliili with shelter dogs or making presentations to breed clubs about the Humane Society's upcoming projects.