Joel Jaschob

1. How long have you been volunteering with PAWS Chicago? What originally drew you to the organization?

I've been volunteering since August of 2017.  I started volunteering at PAWS after reading "To The Rescue" by Elise Lufkin.  Her book features therapy dogs, service dogs, and search-and-rescue dogs that were once discarded or abandoned.  This book is incredible.  It opened my eyes to how special these animals are and made me want to give back - PAWS is the perfect place to do that.  

2. Which PAWS Chicago programs/areas do you volunteer in and why?

I spend a lot of time doing laundry and dishes.  I gravitate to those activities as that is where the need is.  Keeping things tidy and organized is a big help to those who are attending to the day to day needs of the animals.  

3. Do you have a favorite experience or memory from your time volunteering?

The first time I volunteered at the Medical Center was right after Hurricane Harvey.  There was a group of volunteers who had just returned from Texas with a van full of animals that were rescued.  I had the opportunity to socialize with a few of those animals and reflect upon their rescue, their journey to Chicago, and the start of their new lives.  I was moved - and knew then that I wanted to make an impact.

4. What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago?

Volunteering at PAWS enables me to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of homeless animals.  It is very rewarding to see these animals transition from distress to a new life in a loving home.  

5. Do you have any advice for someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?

I would advise them to jump right in and go for it!  PAWS is a great organization whose mission and people are second to none.