This past week, Austin Pets Alive! celebrated our Platinum Volunteers! These volunteers represent the more than 200 people who have given over, and in many cases way over, 75 hours of their time to us for at least two consecutive years. This is an act of service that does not go unnoticed.
APA! has taken on a lot over the years in our push to make Austin a No Kill City, our commitment to save at least 3,000 of the most vulnerable animals that come into Austin Animal Center, and our goal to make Texas a safer place for animals. With our bold initiatives comes a big need for many hands to make the work a little more feasible. We ask so much of people in this cause, and we are truly honored and grateful that so many choose to work with us and embrace this challenging and demanding work that we can only successfully tackle together.
As I look through the list of folks being honored today, I see names like Alex T, who helps with play yard monitoring and dog care at Tarrytown. I see Bea D, who has helped with dog care, cat transport, and the Conflict Resolution Committee. I see Deb C who walks dogs, brings them on sleepovers, and helps with the monster that is laundry. I see Gregg C, who helps with literally everything at APA!. I see Kathy D, who has helped so many mother cats, kittens, and kitties with Panleuk. I see Laurel M who has been supporting dog foster parents for years. I see Lorena C-W, who works tirelessly for the comfort of the dogs onsite. I see Mitzi D, who spends so much time ensuring that Oltorf Thrift moves donated items out onto the floor as fast as possible. I see Markus L, who operates the [email protected] email line, and I see Allie W, who gives so much to the kitties through matchmaking and care. There are so many people on the Platinum Volunteer list who have amazing stories about the work they do and why they do it. I hear over and over how this work is not just about animals but is also about enriching and in some cases saving human lives. Honestly, it makes me a bit teary to read the names and the associated work because I can see how many lives are saved and enriched just because these people said “yes, I’ll do it.”
And wow, did they do it. Here is the impact the Platinum Volunteers have made just since January, 2019:
APA! would not be leading the nation in lifesaving if it weren’t for the people who make all of fulfill each one of those hours listed and I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by so many good people making a big difference for the animals who have no voice. If you would like to learn more about volunteer opportunities at APA!, please reach out via [email protected].
With gratitude and eyes on the future,
Dr. Ellen Jefferson
