Cathy Sweeney
Cathy Sweeny will hit over 2,000 lifetime volunteer hours before the end of 2024. Find out what keeps her coming back.
Cathy Sweeney has volunteered with PAWS for over 10 years, and she will hit over 2,000 lifetime hours before the end of 2024. The reason she keeps coming back is simple—she keeps discovering new things to love.
“As a PAWS volunteer, more opportunities arise the longer you’re involved and as you log more hours!” says Cathy
Cathy’s journey with PAWS started in October 2012 when she joined us as a Kitty City volunteer.
“My cat, Boo Kitty, had recently crossed the rainbow bridge, and while I wasn’t ready to adopt another cat, I knew I wanted to give back to the rescue community. As a long-time Chicago resident, I was aware of PAWS Chicago’s incredible work and wanted to get more involved,” says Cathy.
To this day, Cathy continues to volunteer at Kity City, but her role has expanded. She now co-teaches training classes, mentors new volunteers, and leads volunteer shifts.
“My favorite part of volunteering is socializing the adult cats. These cats have often faced many changes on their journeys to PAWS and may experience shelter stress. Our goal is to make their transition smoother by providing socialization and enrichment, ultimately helping them find their forever homes,” says Cathy
A perfect example of this goes back to 2019 with the adoption of Pierre, a 16-year-old senior cat with diabetes. Cathy says, “This story embodies what PAWS is all about—finding the perfect match for each animal.”
“One day, two veterinarians came to the Adoption Center specifically looking to adopt the longest-term cat. Pierre, with his quirky charm, found the perfect home. He spent the rest of his life being showered with love and attention as the resident office cat at their veterinary clinic,” says Cathy.
In addition to Kitty City, Cathy participates in offsite events like Angels with Tails and Fur Ball. “I’m also part of Team PAWS Chicago, which raises funds for the shelter by participating in endurance events such as 5Ks, triathlons, and marathons,” says Cathy.
Cathy has completed 11 marathons and 25 half marathons to date, and she recently ran the 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon with TEAM PAWS Chicago. She loves raising funds for a cause she believes in.
“PAWS Chicago’s mission to spay and neuter homeless pets is particularly meaningful to me. The Lurie Clinic performed over 16,500 spay/neuter surgeries in 2023 alone. Reducing the number of unwanted pets begins with spaying and neutering, and this is why I’m so inspired by PAWS Chicago’s commitment,” says Cathy.
Feeling inspired to volunteer?
“Just go for it! Sign up for an orientation session to learn more about PAWS Chicago. Once you’ve completed the mentor session, be consistent. Sign up for shifts, engage with fellow volunteers, and remember that we’re all here with a shared mission to help homeless cats and dogs,” says Cathy.
When she’s not volunteering or running marathons, Cathy can be found hanging out with her two PAWS alum kitties at home.
“Sassy is 16 years old and enjoys snoozing in her many comfy beds. Archie is a ‘Velcro’ kitty who loves to follow me around and demands constant attention. He’s my office companion now that I work from home,” says Cathy.
PAWS Chicago couldn’t care for all the pets who need us without the help of dedicated volunteers like Cathy. Please consider joining us in saving lives.