From making flyers, to helping adopters find their perfect match, Deb is always there to help. She also fosters dogs with special needs. We’re so happy to have Deb as a LifeLine volunteer! Read her profile below.
What made you get involved with LifeLine?
My husband and I adopted one of our dogs, Ginny from DeKalb County Animal Services in January 2016. Later that year, I was searching for a more meaningful way to spend my limited volunteer time and decided that giving back to DeKalb/LifeLine was a good way to do that. I planned to walk dogs, giving them a much-needed break while I got some more exercise. I was soon all in, working adoption events, taking pictures, making kennel flyers and anything else that needed to be done at LifeLine’s old Dog House & Kitty Motel in Avondale Estates.
What is your favorite volunteer activity?
By far, the most rewarding activity is helping match a dog with a new family. But honestly, seeing the excitement of a dog who recognizes you and is so excited you’re going to take him/her out is pretty amazing too. Fostering is a special experience. While it is hard to say goodbye and a little piece of your heart goes with each one, it’s so great to know they’re going to an awesome home.
How were you able to use your unique set of skills to help LifeLine?
My background is marketing and communications, so I’ve been able to help with marketing dogs by making flyers, updating online profiles and representing LifeLine in the community. I’ve taken shelter dogs to a pre-school collecting donations for LifeLine and to training classes at Delta. Just last week, a Delta employee adopted the dog she met in her class earlier in the week. They are all in love, and he was one of my favorites, so that was pretty special.
What advice would you give someone who is thinking about volunteering?
Volunteering for LifeLine is so rewarding. The need is so great because the homeless pet population in Atlanta is huge. You can see how your contribution is making a direct impact on these animals, including saving lives especially for those who foster. I always feel appreciated, and the flexibility that LifeLine offers to its volunteers makes it a great experience. Plus we’ve got a great volunteer community, so I’ve made some really good friends through LifeLine. I also urge more people to consider fostering. It doesn’t have to be a huge, open-ended commitment. With the shelters overcrowded, fostering is often literally saving a life.