My Nonprofit Reviews

I am a volunteer at Wildlife Works and was encouraged to do it by another long term volunteer, who insisted that I would "love it." Being more of a cat and dog person, I wasn't sure I would "love it" but I was willing to give it a try. And now, several years later, I can't believe I even questioned doing it. It has become such a large part of my life, and I can't imagine not giving my time to them. The many volunteers there don't get paid to go and help, but yet we all keep coming back, week after week. Many of us have other jobs, families, other commitments in our lives, but we do it because we love the animals, like to do our part for the rehabilitation of wildlife, and also to educate others.

Beth Shoaf, our leader..:), is amazing. She is so knowledgeable, and usually knows what to do in any situation. If she doesn't know, which is rare, she'll find out. I've never seen her, or any staff member, do anything less than the best that they can. Beth has given me confidence about what I am able to do there, and it has extended into my "regular" life as well. She never assumes we are not capable of doing something, and is willing to take the time to educate us until we get it. It makes me proud to come back each week.

We do the best for every creature that comes through the door, no matter if it is a tiny baby bird or a full grown golden eagle. Unless you have done it, no one can fully experience or understand the feeling that you get when caring for an animal and setting it free. Sadly, not everything is able to be rehabbed. But even when that happens, we know that we did the best we could, and gave it a chance that it might not have had otherwise. Then we move on. And worry about the next animal coming through the door, the 20+ outside and 20+ inside that we care fore.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to write a review about us. It really reminded me of why I come in for my shift each week, that it is important to be who we are, do what we do, and why I am very proud to call myself a Wildlife Works volunteer.