Blanca Rosario and Albert Rivera
How long have you been volunteering with PAWS Chicago? What originally drew you to the organization?
We have been volunteering for approximately one year.
Which PAWS Chicago programs/areas do you volunteer in and why?
Pet Food Pantry (preparing and distributing) and the Gus Mobile.
Do you have a favorite experience or memory from your time volunteering?
We love to see people happy after they receive their food and supplies from the pantry!
What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago?
The help and services that PAWS gives to people. The food pantry helps people to not worry about how to provide their pets with food.
Do you have any advice for someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?
You’re going to love it because it’s the best thing there is. It’s like therapy seeing how happy people are at the Pet Food Pantry or at the Gus Mobile.
Dolores Sanchez
How long have you been volunteering with PAWS Chicago? What originally drew you to the organization?
I have been here since 2017. I started rescuing cats from the street and I saw how much they needed attention and care. I started asking how I can help them until I found PAWS near my home. I was drawn to the organization because of the care and attention that they provide each and every animal, especially in the programs that offer assistance to keep animals united with their families.
Which PAWS Chicago programs/areas do you volunteer in and why?
Gus Mobile, Pet Food Pantry, Community Cats, and Cat Care at the Medical Center. And with my own foster cats at home! I enjoy helping in the care and health of the animals and doing something amazing. Each moment is a lesson.
Do you have a favorite experience or memory from your time volunteering?
I love sharing food with people at the Pet Food Pantry! But, more than anything, I love interacting with our cats when they first come in wanting love and affection. I have great memories of spending time with Mikey the cat and getting to know him before he passed. He left an impression on my heart. I have many beautiful memories of some pets that have gone and how their lives were changed with just one hug.
What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago?
On one hand, the great need for assistance in caring for the dogs and cats of the Medical Center that arrive from different places every day. On the other hand, helping families who may not have the resources to provide food and services for their pets and keeping them united while supporting the No Kill message in our communities.
Do you have any advice for someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?
If you have the time, do not hesitate in sharing some affection and cheer with our four-legged friends. Together, let’s support these programs that are doing sensational good. Come and join us in making life better for our pets.