Volunteering

“Service to a just cause rewards the worker with more real happiness and satisfaction than any other venture of life.”

~Carrie Chapman Catt,
American Women’s Rights Activist

I was raised on the principle that every day is a gift and should be shared with those around you. In Girl Scouts, on top of completing multiple service projects, I earned my Leadership Badge, Silver Award, and Gold Award (equivalent to the Boy Scout Eagle recognition). Our church youth group traveled annually to complete mission trips, cleaning up areas and building houses for those without a roof over their heads. Through service, I found both my calling in the world, and the inner warmth that drives me daily, my work is amazing, and if you are interested in this lifestyle you can volunteer or even make a double income with a permanent job.

Volunteering for animal rescues

Although I have volunteered with animal shelters since I was legally old enough, I didn’t start fostering until 2011 after adopting my Aussie boy. He needed a companion to play with, and my aging therapy dog was never one that enjoyed wrestling. So, after seeing a post on Facebook by Stray Rescue, we picked up our first foster dog. Roughly 100 dogs later — after thousands of pounds of food and countless hours spent socializing, cleaning up and training — we still get a thrill in watching our canine friends transform and find their perfect families.

Currently, I specialize in rehabilitating shy and feral dogs, and I am known for my work with herding (i.e. high energy and high intelligence) breeds. We work with several different organizations, depending on the dogs in need at the time, but my main work is with Central Aussie Rescue. Every dog is special; it just sometimes takes a little love and attention before they can show their true beauty.

Along with offering my home and time to dogs in need, I also offer my creative skills to help ensure every dog gets a chance at happiness.