Volunteer Spotlight: Jennifer

Native New Yorker Jennifer has been volunteering with PAWS NY since October 2013. She was volunteering with another organization, Anjellicle Cats Rescue, when she heard about PAWS and decided to get involved.

Jennifer & Clover

“I love the connection that I feel with Rosa and with Clover,” Jennifer said. “I often say that walking Clover is my favorite hour of the week.”

Read Jennifer’s full Q&A below to learn more about walking super-friendly Clover, her own rescue cat Alex, and how her childhood dreams have now come true!

How did you hear about PAWS NY?

I’ve been a PAWS volunteer since October 2013. I first heard about it from a fellow volunteer at Anjellicle Cats Rescue. 

Why are you passionate about PAWS and our mission of helping people by helping pets?

I see firsthand the bond between the clients and their pets and how important it is that they are able to stay together. 

Do you have pets of your own? Or have you in the past? Tell us about them!

I have a rescue cat, Alex. When I volunteered cleaning cats’ cages up for adoption at Petco through Anjellicle Cats Rescue, my coordinator asked if I would take him home for a few days because he was depressed in his cage. At the time, I had another rescue cat, Frankie. They quickly bonded and we adopted Alex. Sadly, Frankie passed away a couple of years ago. Alex, now an elderly gentleman, seems to enjoy the attention we heap on him being our only kitty. 

What do you do as a PAWS NY volunteer? Which clients & pets do you help? What do you do with the pets during your shift?

Clover loves to take long walks in the park. We usually go to Central Park and sometimes to Riverside Park. He loves everyone, and we say hello to other friendly dogs and to his human admirers. When we get home, I chat with Rosa, who always tells me how much she appreciates my help, and I tell her how much I appreciate her sharing Clover with me. 

What is your favorite part about volunteering? Do you have any favorite memories?

I love the connection that I feel with Rosa and with Clover. I often say that walking Clover is my favorite hour of the week. 

What do you do for work? What brought you / keeps you in NYC?

I’m a sign language interpreter and writer. I was born in New York City and can’t imagine living anywhere else. 

What do you like to do in your spare time (besides volunteer with PAWS NY)?

I love to hike, dance, practice yoga, and am starting to learn how to play pickleball. 

Share a fun fact about yourself!

I spent most of my childhood begging for a pet. 

Thanks for your passion and dedication Jennifer – we’re glad you’re a volunteer! If you’d like to volunteer with PAWS NY alongside Jennifer, register for a Virtual Volunteer Orientation now!