Volunteering at the Auction for the Animals

How did we ever survive without Sherrie? Since her start with us in May of 2009, Sherrie Reits has logged almost 200 hours!  In one way or another, Sherrie has been involved with us since the mid 90’s when she adopted her first dog from us. She then worked at the Lakeland Ledger where she created an ad space where local businesses “sponsored” SPCA pets. Then came the blogging…then came the official volunteering earlier this year.  Sherrie decided to volunteer on-site for many reasons, but mainly because her daughter Katie wants to be veterinarian and she thought this would be a good experience toward that goal. Being only 13, she needed a parent to be an active volunteer as well. Once they got started, Sherrie says, “it’s been a whirlwind of non-stop activities ever since.”

Sherrie is eager to learn every aspect about the SPCA.  She helps us with everything from designing and sewing dog donation coats, to writing grants, to walking our dogs. Sherrie is a great leader and is willing to dive right into things. She loads the SPCA van with supplies and animals and transports our dogs safely to events, giving up the majority of her Saturday to find animals homes. Her work ethic and generosity are evidenced by the fact that she is a mother of four (ages 13-20),  mom to a special needs (blind and deaf) Border Collie named Little Bear, works full time as an Executive Assistant at Driver Training Associates, yet somehow finds the time to volunteer over 30 hours a month for us.  

She helped with the fashion show at our 30th birthday bash in September, and helped with her first Auction for the Animals this November.  She says, “the event impressed me beyond words. It was so well coordinated and the number of people to turn-out for the event was incredible.” Sherrie has served as a FEMA inspector, done some traveling and held some great jobs, but says “being a volunteer for the SPCA ranks right up there among one of the most rewarding experiences I have known. Whether it’s getting dirty in the dog kennels or attending a country club event makes no difference. Learning to teach the dogs to be more obedient or spending cuddling time with the cats; equally gratifying. Sewing costumes or baking cakes, placing signs or standing in the heat – all the same.”  What is Sherrie’s favorite thing about volunteering for the SPCA? “When I can help an animal get adopted,” she states. She adds, “When I’m at an off-site event and we adopt out an animal, it’s such a wonderful feeling to know that animal is going to a loving, caring family. To be part of the adoption screening process; to be an advocate for that animal, is a very special feeling.”  A few months ago, Sherrie adopted Honey out to a loving family who drove from Pasco County to the off-site event Sherrie was running. Their current pet’s vet records could not be verified, and the family could not get to the adoption center before 5:00 p.m.. Sherrie went out of her way the following Monday evening  by meeting the family half way to deliver Honey, once the records were verified. She was nothing but happy to help.

Sherrie’s leadership, initiative, dependability and work ethic are just a few of the dozens of reasons she was chosen this month.  Thank you for the generous time you have given for the animals, Sherrie…. we adore you!

“I am very honored to be designated “Volunteer of the Month”, Sherrie stated.  “If I had one valuable piece of advice to give, it would be this: VOLUNTEER for the SPCA! You’ll be very glad you did!”

To find out more about volunteering, please visit us online at www.lovemyspca.com or call: 863/646-7722