Roberta Kushen
“You will get back more than you give as a volunteer. Tenfold.”
Some people retire and move to Florida. Roberta Kushen retired and started volunteering.
“I retired in April 2023 and started volunteering at PAWS Chicago in June 2023. Even before I retired, I knew I would become a volunteer at PAWS,” says Roberta.
Roberta’s inspiration for volunteering was and is her love of animals.
“I’ve had cats and dogs my entire life. My oldest cat, Harry, lived to be 19 ½ years old. Currently, I have two dogs, PAWS alums Charlie and Finley, and a cat named Blanche who absolutely adores her dog brothers. I strongly believe every pet deserves a second chance and to find a loving home,” says Roberta.
Roberta is especially passionate about PAWS Chicago’s commitment to animal health and behavior and community involvement.
“I am truly amazed at the groundbreaking work we do at the Medical Center and the investment we make in our shelter pets to get them well and ready for adoption. And when it comes to spreading the word in our communities and outreach activities to keep pets in their homes, I don’t think anyone does it better than PAWS!” says Roberta.
While Roberta has been a volunteer at PAWS just under one year, she’s already accumulated an impressive list of skills and experience. At our Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center, Roberta volunteers with both dogs and cats and as an Adoption Counselor. But that’s just the beginning.
“I became a PAWS Chicago Ambassador in November and have worked at various PAWS events. I provide administrative support to the Development team, and I’m a member of the Animal Bio writing team. I’m also training to join the Corporate Group Hosting team and to become a mentor to other volunteers,” says Roberta.
And even after all that, Roberta maintains, “You will get back more than you give as a volunteer. Tenfold.”
Interested in becoming a PAWS volunteer like Roberta?
“PAWS offers an array of unique opportunities for volunteers. You’ll be able to serve in any number of roles, but whatever role you serve, you’ll be working to support PAWS Chicago’s No-Kill mission,” says Roberta.