Volunteer of the Year

Our volunteers are the heart and soul of Paws and Think. Thanks for all that you do!

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us. We would love to talk with you about the possibilities.

2008 Adult Volunteer of the Year: Debbie Feltz

A word from Debbie…

A love for animals has been with me since I was a little girl growing up in the wilds of south Florida and on my grandparent’s farm in Iowa. Finding and rescuing birds that have fallen out of nests, box turtles on the road, kittens and other critters was a common occurrence.

But, as a recently retired accountant I have had the opportunity to get involved with serving in community groups which include: Goodwill Industries, PEO, White River Golden Retriever Club and Paws and Think.

My husband, Bill, and I share our home with "Indy", a special golden retriever, and "Chessie", a gray kitty.

I first got involved with Paws and Think through a conference that Indy and I attended. Carolyn Scott presented a two day workshop on "Freestyle Dance" (doggy dancing). That weekend started a journey towards learning how to doggy dance. The goal is to be able to bring a smile to the folks in an audience whether in a nursing home, hospital, or festival. We just recently completed the first of two legs toward a title in this sport. In addition to the freestyle dance, I lead a drill team of 6 golden retrievers and their handlers. It is a LOT of FUN!

Indy and I also went through the course for the animal assisted therapy program with Paws and Think; I hope to work in some of the volunteer venues available.

One of the truly rewarding experience has been helping with the program for Students at Risk. Bringing students in the community and homeless dogs from the shelter together is an awesome transformation for both parties. Teens who are in a difficult situation develop a sense of worth when they work with the dogs. And, the dogs find good homes as a result.

Previous Volunteers of the Year:

2007:
Youth Volunteer of the Year: Sara Gibson
Adult Volunteer of the Year: Jodi Van Slyke

2006:
Youth Volunteer of the Year: Amanda Clevenger
Adult Volunteer of the Year (inaugural): Jill Boyer

2005:
Youth Volunteer of the Year: Leslie Hannah

2004:
Youth Volunteer of the Year (inaugural): Keith Diemer