When did you start volunteering at PAWS?
I think it was in 2006.
What jobs/roles have you performed at PAWS?
I started as a Wednesday night regular dog walker (I really miss that shift!), then transitioned into Shift Leader, Failed Dog Foster, Dog Adoption Counselor, and Dog Intake Coordinator.
What do you currently do as a volunteer?
Primarily I handle our dog intakes. I work with owners looking to surrender the dogs to PAWS, meet with the people and dogs, and then set up and check the dog into the kennel or foster home. I still also do a bit of adoption counseling but on an as-needed basis.
Why do you volunteer at PAWS?
I enjoy helping the dogs in need and making a small difference in our community. I also love all of the volunteers that I have met over the years and have made many amazing friends through PAWS.
When you're not at PAWS, what do you like to do with your time?
I feel most of my "spare" time is spent with family, especially wrangling my 5 yr old daughter. Otherwise, I like to attend local sporting events and reading.
What do you like best about being a PAWS volunteer?
What do you find to be the most rewarding? Pretty much the same answer as why I volunteer. I like that we are able to help so many animals. Many don't realize it, but through this mission, we help a lot of people too, through various ways. It's not just the dogs and cats who benefit from all we do at PAWS. I always leave a PAWS shift feeling better than when I arrived.
If someone asked you why they should volunteer at PAWS, what answer would you give?
See above!