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Alexis Gabay

OCTOBER 2020


Meet Alexis, the October Volunteer of the Month! As a volunteer, Alexis helps us with adoption center transports, socializing cats in Kitty City and spending time with the dogs and cats at our Medical Center. We truly appreciate everything Alexis does for the pets at PAWS. Read more about Alexis and her volunteer journey with PAWS in the Q&A below! 

1. How long have you been volunteering with PAWS Chicago? What originally drew you to the organization? 

I started at PAWS in May 2013.  I had been thinking of it for years, as my building doesn't allow dogs and I thought that PAWS would provide a great puppy fix.  But then a small town in Oklahoma was hit by a tornado and I learned that PAWS was rescuing animals from the local shelters to find homes in Chicago.  I grew up in North Texas and was motivated to help the animals from my former neighbor state.  I immediately signed up for an orientation class and have now been with PAWS for 7.5 years.

2. Which PAWS Chicago programs/areas do you volunteer in and why? 

At one point my Volgistics page went on for 3 pages.  I started at the Welcome Desk at the Adoption Center and am Level 1 cats and Level 2 dogs.  I have worked at all 3 PAWS locations and am mostly known for training new volunteers and driving the van to transport animals, pick up donations and facilitate offsite adoption events.  I will pretty much do whatever is needed.  

3. Do you have a favorite experience or memory from your time volunteering? 

Finding the right music to soothe the animals on the van can be my biggest challenge.  I switch radio stations to find whatever it takes to calm everyone down.  Anything by Tom Petty is always a hit, as is Bohemian Rhapsody.

4. What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago? 

Being able to help the animals and the hardworking staff who care for them is so gratifying.  Everyday is a new love story.

5. Do you have any advice for someone who is considering becoming a volunteer? 

Animal lovers are the best people, so know that you'll be in great company.  And the animals will love you.