Volunteer and Fostering is More Than You Think
To the 142 volunteers and fosters who support our work today, and to those who have been a part of this mission over the years, thank you. Your time, compassion, and dedication make it possible for us to care for the animals who come through our doors and help them find their families.
For National Volunteer Appreciation Week (4/19-4/25), we will be highlighting a handful of volunteers and fosters who have been going above and beyond for the animals in our care.
Our Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator and Foster Coordinator have a few words they want to share with you:
“Thank you for your dedication to helping our animals feel compassion and empathy while they wait for their forever homes. It can be a lot emotionally at times, but the happy goodbyes are the goal– even if it is bittersweet.” – Sarah, Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator
“I appreciate not only sacrificing your time, but also the emotional sacrifice you make when fostering. While fostering can be hard, I really am grateful for the wonderful team that we’ve built… and I wouldn’t change it for the world.” – Grace, Foster Coordinator
Why Volunteers and Fosters Matter
With the many animals that come through our doors each year, it can be difficult for staff alone to foster, socialize, and provide enrichment for each dog and cat. As we continue to reduce the length of stay for cats and dogs in our care, we appreciate the kindness of our volunteers in ensuring each pet receives the love and attention they deserve each day–from intake through adoption.
- With every animal that is fostered, we are able to get to know them better. Are they good with kids? Are they good with other dogs or cats? Do they have particular quirks that make them unique?These are questions fosters can answer, which is useful for animal bios– helping them find their perfect match sooner.
- An hour spent brushing, petting, playing, or even just sitting with the cats helps them de-stress in what can otherwise stressful, unfamiliar environment. These small actions help them come out of their shell, and they can share their true personality when that special family comes around.
- Spending an hour walking or training dogs provides the mental and physical exercise they need to be their best selves. This time is perfect for socialization, learning new skills, and discovering traitsthat can be relayed to potential adopters.
- Finding more forever homes allows our organization to take in more homeless animals, care for them, and continue finding perfect matches.
Caring for animals in need is the heart of our mission, but the support of volunteers and fosters is essential to our strength. Their presence reminds us that we are not alone–our experiences, emotions, and dedication are shared and understood by others who care just as deeply.
Each day brings the unexpected, from challenging and heartbreaking moments to joyful celebrations and kindness. Through it all, our staff, volunteers, and fosters support each other. It is during these times that we see the best of humanity shining through as we come together for one common purpose.
Getting Involved Can Mean Something Different
When people think about volunteering, it’s often hands-on time with the animals that comes to mind. And while that work is incredibly meaningful, it’s only one part of what makes everything possible here.
Behind the scenes, there are volunteers keeping things running every single day. Laundry. Dishes. Sanitization. The steady, essential work that creates a clean, safe environment for the animals in our care. It may not always be the most visible role, but it is one of the most impactful.
In our clinic, volunteers play a critical role as well. From preparing surgical packs to supporting daily operations, this work helps our veterinary team move efficiently and provide the care that is often the first step for animals who come through our doors.
Within our care teams, volunteers also help create enrichment for the animals, from filling KONGs to preparing activities that support their well-being while they wait. Others help assemble pet food pantry bags, ensuring families in our community can continue to care for and keep the pets they love at home.
There are also volunteers who show up in ways that extend far beyond our walls. From supporting community events to helping us fundraise and connect with new audiences, these roles are critical to sustaining our mission.
“Our need for event volunteers is constant, and it’s more important than ever,” said Kristi, Director of Marketing and Development. “Events like FurrBall and Parade of Paws don’t just raise funds that support our mission. They create the opportunity to share our work, bring the community together, and ultimately support the animals who come through our doors. We simply couldn’t do it without volunteers who are willing to step into those roles.”
From tree decorators and procurement teams who help secure auction and raffle items, to volunteers who assist with event setup and breakdown, each role plays a part in creating something bigger than a single day.
Volunteering doesn’t look just one way. Whether you’re folding towels, preparing surgical packs, creating enrichment, supporting families through our pet food pantry, or helping at an event, you are part of the care, the connection, and the better tomorrows we’re working toward every day.
Inspiration for You
As we share the inspiring stories and words of volunteers and fosters next week, we hope it may inspire you or someone you know to get involved.
“We’re always looking for support with things like events, procurement, cat cuddling/socializing, dog walking, and we’re happy to work with your schedule and interests. Whether you can give a little time or a lot, it all matters and is deeply appreciated.” – Sarah
“I think a lot of people don’t realize how easy it is to foster and how little space and time it requires… A lot of people say I can’t foster; I would love them too much. But what’s loving if not trying to help.” – Grace
No matter how you get involved, it will always have a positive impact on the animals’ well-being. It is the little paws that touch our hearts and inspire us to provide them with the happy, healthy life that they deserve.
