Our "Best Friend" Honored Volunteer
What programs and projects do you volunteer with at Best Friends LA?
My first day I spent sitting in the reception area making i.d. tags. I enjoyed doing that because I was able to see the clients with their new family members! I used to go on mobiles almost every weekend for the past two years. I attend the NKLA Super Adoptions. Lately, I have been volunteering in the cat department. So little time and so much to do! That's what I love about Best Friends LA; there's something for everyone.
Why do you choose to volunteer with Best Friends LA?
After I watched Dogtown, I wished I lived closer to the Sanctuary. I used to volunteer for a small organization, but was so happy when Best Friends came to Mission Hills. I believe Best Friends is THE leader in the no-kill movement.
How long have you been a Best Friends LA volunteer?
About 2 1/2 years
What type of fun stuff do you do when you're not volunteering?
I am a paralegal for a solo practitioner. I was a travel agent for 16 years, so I no longer have a travel bug. Also, it is difficult to get away with so many animals to care for! I have season tickets to the Ahmanson, love British movies/television shows, NCIS and admit, am hooked on playing Candy Crush and Farm Heroes!
Do you have a favorite story to share about an experience volunteering with Best Friends LA?
There are so many, but the one that I will never forget is when Huda, the senior Finnish Spitz, left a mobile at Kahoots for a trial adoption. It all depended on if she got along with the woman's cats. I assume it worked out because I never saw her again. I can still picture her leaving with her new mom; I don't think there was a dry eye amongst the staff and volunteers!
Do you have any pets?
As a child, I was always a dog person. I hate to admit it, but I really didn't care for cats. I still love dogs, however, after I got my first cat Holden in 1989, I haven't stopped! I now have 4 cats; Alexis, Gordon, Ryan and Mimi. Alexis came from the streets, the other three are all foster failures. I also foster/socialize kittens for a woman with a big heart who is trying to "save them all" by herself. Luckily, I live in a city where the cat limit is 6:-) And I hate the title "crazy cat lady!"
What others are saying about Darlene:
"Darlene is such a huge help with both cats and adoptions. She is always willing to help with anything we need and is wonderful with helping clients find the perfect match for them. Thank you Darlene for helping our kitties find the best homes!" - Janette Nevils, Lead Cat Caregiver