Heena Bhatt

The great thing about volunteering with PAWS is there is so much you can do to contribute and there are a variety of programs you can participate in - not to mention, what can beat being greeted by a group of animals who are excited to see you! It's been something that I can only describe as truly good for the soul!

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

I have been volunteering at PAWS Chicago since October 2016. It was a time in my life where I wanted to do more than just my normal routine and I remember driving past the Lincoln Park Adoption Center thinking "Oh I would love to volunteer there. I should check the volunteer program there". Within a few weeks, I had done the New Volunteer Orientation, showed up at the Medical Center for my first shift and I never looked back!

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

I'm a L2 volunteer at the Medical Center and help in a few different areas. I'm a lead volunteer during the 8am shift on Fridays. I help out with the intake shifts, where we welcome the animals from other shelters once they arrive at the Medical Center. I also assist the Intake team with SAFER tests. Being able to partake in different areas has been an enjoyable learning experience to see what process the animals may go through before they go to the Adoption Centers.

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

It's really hard to pick one memory! I think there's something about knowing when the animals arrive that they are going to be properly looked after and placed in a good home. Some of the back stories to the animals are really heart breaking, and it really shows when we take them off the van for the first time. But some of the animals, the energy and excitement they show - you'd never guess what kind of life they have lived. Each of the animals in their own way I feel leaves a mini-memory for me.

What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago?

The great thing about volunteering with PAWS is there is so much you can do to contribute and there are a variety of programs you can participate in - not to mention, what can beat being greeted by a group of animals who are excited to see you! It's been something that I can only describe as truly good for the soul!

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

Come and try it out - all you need is just a few hours! In addition to helping out animals and making a better life for them, it will be an experience you will be glad you committed to. And with all the programs you can take part in, you are bound to find something you love. The staff is great and you'll meet a lot of other wonderful volunteers and friends along the way.