It's an insurance thing most likely.

They probably just wanna make sure something really random doesn't happen to you like a dog biting you or somethin'.

But, for website updates, that rediculous, that's something you can do from home. I'd definetly go back and speak with the shelter manager directly and bring the completed application with you. It'll show that you have dedication and maturity.

I used to work for The East Bay Humane Society here in Berkeley, California. The volunteers who were under 18 had to have a legal guardian with them at all times. Go back and see if some type of an arrangement can be made.

I run a non-profit organization (not relating to animals, we teach non-biased drug education) and even our under 18 volunteers have to have written parental consent. I feel bad because of legalities and insurance they aren't allowed to do certain things, but, quite a few of our under 18's are more mature and responsible than some of our 25 years old volunteers and sometimes I wish those restrictions were the other way around!!!