James Passarelli

Thinking about joining James 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?

I have been volunteering at PAWS for just a few months - since the beginning of 2019. I had some extra time on my hands and after talking with a coworker who also volunteers at PAWS I knew it would be a good fit.

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

I am a Dog Town Level 2 Volunteer and a Dog Town Mentor at the Lincoln Park Adoption Center. At first, I wanted to volunteer in Dog Town for the expected reason - to get some puppy play time after work - but since then, I have appreciated the ability to contribute in even a small way to sending our homeless pets into their forever homes.

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

I always enjoy when we send some of our longer-term residents to their forever home. Even if I haven’t interacted with an animal directly, it is satisfying to know that in some small way every dish that is washed and each load of laundry contributes to PAWS’s mission and these animals.

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

PAWS as an organization invests a lot into continuously improving the knowledge and training of its volunteers. I love continuing to learn about how to best care for our dogs and helping adopters find their perfect match.

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

Sign up for your orientation session! There are so many ways to get involved that there is certainty a good fit for you.