Owen Metric

"I like being a host because you see projects from start to finish and it’s fun to see all the impact you’ve had over a day."

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

Two years. I wanted to work with animals and my local shelter didn’t have a youth volunteer program.

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

I do the Family Services Program and am a host. I like being a host because you see projects from start to finish and it’s fun to see all the impact you’ve had over a day. It’s great to direct the team and teach people how they can help.

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

Showing up one Saturday and a dog that had been there for what seemed like 6 months had been adopted!  It made me really happy that PAWS was following it’s policy and not putting the animals down but helping them find homes even if it took a long time.

What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago?

We’re obviously helping the animals and it’s fun to interact with all the cats and dogs.

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

You should totally do it because it gives you a ton of experience with time management, organization, and cleaning, AND you get to play with the animals! It’s really good to come a lot at the beginning so you can master everything quickly and get to know the other volunteers.