My Nonprofit Reviews

LauraMegan
Review for Northwoods Humane Society, Wyoming, MN, USA
I started volunteering at Northwoods Humane Society after I was laid off from work, I had driven past twice a day for 2 years and kept thinking I should try to find some time to volunteer there. In 2011 I started as a dog walker and have loved every walk I went on. Since beginning, I have been given the opportunity to volunteer in multiple roles and learn many skills and aspects of the shelter's operations. Staff at the shelter even remembered my visit (which was 2 years prior) and welcomed me back (in this new role) with welcome arms. The acceptance and kindness I have felt while being at the Northwoods has meant so very much to me. The support I have received from staff and fellow volunteers is equal to a family. This shelter does amazing work and is a vital organization in our small community.
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I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
when I first moved to the area, my husband and I went to Northwoods to look at a dog. We were treated with such kindness and respect that we felt welcomed every time we went to look before making a decision. I have since started volunteering and couldn't be happier with the choice of organization I associate my name with.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
increase funding to help support an increase in services. The shelter operates amazingly well (in my opinion) but all non-profits could benefit from additional funding to increase services. One area this shelter could benefit from is increased marketing and web-presence; this usually requires a trained staff that has time to focus solely on these projects. It's this aspect that could help Northwoods reach an even greater population and help even more animals find a "fur-ever" home more quickly.
Would you volunteer for this group again?
Definitely
For the time you spent, how much of an impact did you feel your work or activity had?
Life-changing
Did the organization use your time wisely?
Very Well
Would you recommend this group to a friend?
Definitely
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2012
What one change could this group make that would improve your volunteer experience?
Nothing. From my point of view, Northwoods Humane Society operates very well and has found a good balance between friendly, welcoming, MN-nice and business-minded practice. Every person I talk to who knows of Northwoods has wonderful things to say, whether its first hand experience or through someone they know. Our community values and appreciates this organizations work.
Did your volunteer experience have an effect on you? (teaching you a new skill, or introducing new friends, etc.)
Volunteering at Northwoods helped me feel connected to my community and a connection to something other than paid employment, but to an organization whose purpose is more than earning a profit.