Bonnie Morgan

A steady hand in our North Shore Adoption Center, Bonnie is a talented and dedicated volunteer who helps new pets, new adopters and new volunteers all feel welcome! Bonnie’s joyful efforts in her “Happy Place” keep tails wagging and faces smiling.

Join Bonnie, and all our wonderful volunteers, in saving lives today! There are so many great ways to get involved.

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

I have loved dogs my whole life and participated in many fundraisers for dogs. After researching and visiting several shelters, I realized PAWS, a no kill facility, was the perfect place for me to volunteer. So, in late December, 2014, I began my volunteer work as a level 1 dog handler.

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

I wear several hats at PAWS North Shore; level 2 dog volunteer, level 1 cat volunteer, adoption counselor, PAWS Ambassador, participant in many offsite adoption events, and soon to have a new role as a Dog Showing Workshop instructor.  Since I want to be part of a team that helps our animals have a successful transition into home life, I participate in activities that relate to our dogs and cats physical and emotional wellbeing.

Each of my volunteer activities contributes to this goal. I feel quite blessed that my "Happy Place" affords me the opportunity to help homeless dogs and cats find their forever homes.  Whether I am socializing/playing with dogs, or sometimes cats, doing laundry, chatting with human guests, or any other tasks, I am helping our furry friends find their way to forever happy homes.

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

A few years ago, a wonderful senior chocolate lab arrived at North Shore. He was such a sweet guy, and we all fell in love with him. Thankfully, two wonderful women adopted him as a friend for their yellow lab.  Happily, he lived the rest of his life in their home. Two months ago, his mom attended a PAWS adoption event (after her beloved companion crossed the rainbow bridge) and adopted two-year-old Blossom. I am delighted to say that our dogs hit the love jackpot when they were adopted into this family.

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

I want every dog and cat that joins the PAWS family to find a loving forever home, and I feel privileged to be a member of this extended family.  The bonus, many of our PAWS staff and volunteers have become close friends!

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

If you are an animal lover, visit all of our facilities and see where you feel the most comfortable and useful. Then, keep coming. It's important work and lots of fun!