Jennifer O’Neill

Meet Jennifer O’Neill! Jennifer has run many races with TEAM PAWS Chicago and serves as a Shepherd (mentor) to our runners, offering them fundraising and running support and advice. In addition, Jennifer serves on our Professional Board and several committees, including acting as Communications Co-Chair and a member of our Social Committee. She also served on our Inaugural Golf Outing Committee this past year. Jennifer is always volunteering to help at additional events and activities, and she is one of our most engaged members.

How did you start volunteering with PAWS Chicago?
I have been a volunteer with PAWS since 2017. I decided to run my first marathon and chose PAWS as my charity partner. I was new to the city and knew of PAWS, and I wanted a way to volunteer where I could accomplish my running goals.

How do you volunteer at PAWS and what’s your favorite way to help?  
I am a member of TEAM PAWS Chicago, a Shepherd for TEAM PAWS Chicago, and a member of the Professional Board serving on a number of committees. My favorite way to help PAWS is by running for TEAM PAWS Chicago. I have yet to run in my TEAM PAWS singlet and NOT hear about someone's pet from PAWS. I feel most connected to the cause knowing my race has a purpose and choosing to run on behalf of the shelter animals in my life.

What inspired you to have a heart for animal welfare?
I have loved animals for as long as I can remember. When I was in high school, my family adopted Emma, a Malamute/Lab mix from a local animal shelter. It broke my heart learning that not only could people give up their animals, but the animals could suffer as a result. Seeing how she, like so many shelter dogs, can love unconditionally despite their prior circumstances was inspiring to me. I immediately signed up to volunteer at the local shelter to raise money so more animals could be saved. She, among the many other shelter dogs in my life, was the reason I am so passionate about animal welfare.

What’s your favorite story about your time at PAWS?
During my first Chicago Marathon as a TEAM PAWS runner, I was having a really tough race. I was in so much pain and feeling so defeated from my injury, but I was determined to keep going. At one of the aid stations, a volunteer saw my singlet and commented on how she adopted her best friend from PAWS and thanked me for my commitment to PAWS. She and I burst into tears and talked for far too long about our shelter pups. It was exactly my "why" as a sign to keep going. That's just one small example of how PAWS touches so many lives.

What three things would you tell someone who’s interested in becoming a PAWS volunteer?
First, remember your “why.” Being a volunteer in any capacity will be a commitment, but coming back to the reason you're passionate about the cause will make it all worth it. Next, dive in headfirst. Say yes to as much as you can and be present in each opportunity. I've made some of my best (human) friends through PAWS and each opportunity can teach you something about yourself that you didn't know. Lastly, spread the word to as many people as you can! You never know what barriers can be broken down by sharing your love for animals and passion for PAWS.