Volunteers of the Month single view | PAWS Chicago

Shop
  1. Home Page
  2. How To Help
  3. Volunteer
  4. Volunteers of the Month
  5. Maryellen Friedman

Maryellen Friedman

January Volunteer of the Month


Meet Maryellen, the January volunteer of the month! Maryellen has been a PAWS Chicago volunteer for the past four years, spending her time at our Medical Center and supporting our Community Outreach program. At the Medical Center, Maryellen is a TLC volunteer – coming for multiple shifts a week to socialize dogs and cats who are in isolation while recovering from illness or injury. This enrichment is absolutely critical for these animals – while they may have had a rough start, Maryellen gives them the second chance they need to thrive!

In addition to all that, Maryellen has been instrumental to keeping our Pet Food Pantry operational throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.  Each month, Maryellen loads up a PAWS van and delivers needed pet food and supplies to pet owners served by PAWS for Life via our new mobile Pet Food Pantry. Using contactless delivery, Maryellen helps to ensure each pet owner receives their scheduled pet supplies and food when they need them.

Thank you for your dedication to PAWS, Maryellen! Read more about Maryellen's volunteer journey with PAWS in the Q&A below. Feeling inspired? Sign up to become a PAWS Chicago volunteer today.

How long have you been volunteering with PAWS Chicago?

I began March, 2017

What originally drew you to the organization?

I knew of PAWS great reputation through friends and family who adopted through PAWS.  

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

I volunteer as a TLC volunteer and doing pet food delivery, both extremely rewarding programs.  As a TLC volunteer I am able to provide comfort to the sickest animals and those who receive the least amount of volunteer interaction.  Pet food delivery brings me joy each and every time, as I get to meet our clients and help them provide care and comfort to their pets.

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

I was given the opportunity to socialize a group of nine small puppies who did not have their mother. They all fell asleep on my lap in a group.  That was priceless.

What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago?

The amazing programs described above!

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

Do it!  There are an array of opportunities so you can find one that suits you and your interests and comfort level.