I love my volunteer job.

 

Some of you have already heard that I have been volunteering at the Yolo County Animal Shelter. I'm part of a small morning team; we take the dogs out for their first potty break of the morning and get their kennels set up for the day with food and toys and clean bedding. I then take as many dogs as I have time for on longer walks. We practice good leash manners and any commands they know. I go on Tuesday mornings.  

 

Why do I love it?

 

The tasks suit me. They are simple, concrete, and pretty physical. They are completely different from anything I do at work, and I like the balance that provides. I like the people I work with - they are welcoming and supportive. The Tuesday morning shift fits perfectly into my schedule.

 

But most of all, I know that what I do makes a difference. These small, concrete tasks contribute to a big picture where dogs are well cared-for and therefore are more adoptable. Everything we volunteers do eases the stress of being in the shelter, and easing that stress helps the dogs present their best face to the public. In my time at the shelter, I have seen dogs who came in shy and poorly socialized come out of their shells and learn good behavior. It's beautiful to watch.

 

Many people ask if this isn't difficult work to do - if it isn't too sad to see the dogs in the shelter. And it's true that it wouldn't be a fit for everyone. Some dogs get stressed in the shelter, and some stay for longer than we would wish before they get adopted. But for me, seeing these things is outweighed by all of the positive things I witness.

 

Do you have a volunteer job you love? I have found the right niche for me - and you can too. Maybe even through the ministries of this church!

 

All the things that make my volunteer job a fit for me are what I hope for when folks volunteer through the church. We hope to match you with tasks that suit you - whether, like me, that is something that provides a balance and change of pace from what you do at home or work, or whether for you that is an opportunity to do more of what you love - things you might also do at work or home. You will find welcoming and supportive people to work with. There is something for every schedule.

 

And most of all, the work of church volunteers makes a difference. Churches truly are volunteer-run organizations. We are able to nurture spiritual growth and serve our community only because of the time and talents of church volunteers.

 

If you haven't yet found your volunteer niche through Davis UMC, please talk to me or any member of the Nominating Committee (Zora Fowler, Megan Houpt, John Uhte, Janice Morand, Jerry Olson, Sarah Williams, and John Knight). We will listen carefully and caringly to your ideas about what kind of work and setting is the best fit with you, and help match you to a place where your skills are needed.

 

There is truly something for everyone! (Well, except dogs. We don't have dogs.)