An Unbelievable Milestone
Just recently, we surpassed more than 1,000 active volunteers at the OHS — volunteers who give their time and talents for Ottawa’s homeless animals.
A tremendous thank you to the volunteers helping the animals today, and the countless who helped in the past in so many ways. It is only through the love and support of our incredible volunteers that the OHS can be here for the animals every day.
National Volunteer Week starts today, and it’s a great opportunity to celebrate the impact of those who give their time, skills, and compassion to the animals and the people who love them.
Volunteers are a part of everything we do for Ottawa’s homeless animals. From walking dogs to spending time with cats and small animals, supporting our fundraising events, fostering animals who need them most, helping kids to learn about animals or helping behind the scenes in administration. Volunteers make life-saving shelter and care possible.
One of the groups that fills me with the most hope and inspiration are the youth who volunteer to help kids learn more about pets at our camps and support our community events. What might start as a way to collect the 40 volunteer hours needed for high school often transforms into an even longer commitment. These teens are volunteering not because they have to, but because they want to be here for the animals.
That commitment is a part of the very core of why people volunteer. Volunteers want to give their time for a cause that means something to them. They do it with no expectation of anything in return. They do it to make a difference.
It’s this commitment that ensures homeless animals find second chances, that our programs and services reach those who need them most, and that love, hope and kindness continue to grow in our city.
I am endlessly grateful for our volunteers’ dedication and generosity, for believing in second chances, and for making Ottawa a more humane place for the animals and the people who love them.
On behalf of our team at the OHS, thank you for inspiring us every day.
Happy National Volunteer Week!
Sharon Miko
President & CEO