Donna Bailey

Thinking about joining Donna and all our incredible volunteers to help save lives? Contact volunteers@pawschicago.org to learn more about upcoming volunteer orientations!

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

Since the Spring of 2018.  I have always enjoyed spending my “down” time working with animals.  When I relocated to Chicago, at the top of my list was finding an association that welcomed volunteers directly handling shelter animals and one that was open to flexible schedules. 

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

Intake, TLC & Angel With Tails events.  With Intake & TLC, I enjoy that I am constantly learning something new on each shift.  No two intakes are ever the same – varying dog dynamics, etc.  With TLC, it is very rewarding to spend one on one time with some of the isolated furbies who may be in recovery, so that they can continue to benefit from socialization while they arr healing.  At Angel With Tails, I am occasionally paired with a dog that I first handled during a previous intake – and seeing them adopted on site is an amazing a PAWS full circle experience!

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

Participating in the drive for an intake transport was a unique experience.  Going to meet up with one of the out of state partners in Indiana and then bringing back a group of four legged friends to Chicago was pretty amazing.  Being the first point of contact in welcoming the furry crew to Medical Center was definitely remarkable.

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

Knowing that I have an opportunity to directly engage with new arrivals and be a part of their journey in finding their fur-ever homes.  Also, I enjoy comradery with my fellow volunteers and the intake/MC staff. 

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

Solicit feedback from the veteran volunteers on what they love most about coming to PAWS.  While everyone has a different story, the common denominator is that each person has found a sense of purpose and routinely returns for that particular shift.  Be it with dogs/cats, driving the transport van, attending community events, spending TLC time in ISO – there is truly something for everyone!  And whoever you talk to, everyone LOVEs what they are volunteering doing!