August Volunteer of the Month: Megan Tomkiel

Megan standing by the river with two dogs
August 24, 2018

How long have you been at PAWS?
I started volunteering with PAWS in early 2016, and I started on staff in early 2017, first as Kennel Assistant and then as Staff Assistant. 

What's your favorite thing about PAWS?
I love how much PAWS truly cares about find the right fit for every animal that comes through our doors! I also love that we have such a fantastic team of volunteers and staff that do everything in their power to keep the animals comfortable and happy during their stay here.


What's your favorite thing to do at PAWS?
As a volunteer, I absolutely love being a Pet Partner for dogs. I love helping to equip them with the tools they need to succeed both during their stay here and in their future homes. It is such a bittersweet experience because you do form very close bonds with Pet Partners, which can make it hard to say goodbye, but it is such a rewarding experience helping a dog find the right home for them!

What are your favorite non-PAWS hobbies?
I like to hang out with my husband Paul, our four cats, and our foster dog CC, during which time we mostly watch awesome Netflix shows. I also have a lot of crafty hobbies including knitting and spinning my own yarn. I'm also a voracious reader. When I'm not at PAWS (which is a lot) or being a homebody I also like to go hiking.

Where are you from?
I was born and raised in York, PA, and we moved to State College 3 years ago.  

What is your favorite book?
I love lots of books, especially classic literature, but I would have to say that as a 90's baby, my favorite books are definitely the Harry Potter series since I practically grew up on them!