Our "Best Friend" Honored Volunteer: Barbara Tauber
"Our Best Friends" is a weekly installment to honor just a few of our outstanding Best Friends LA volunteers. This is your chance to get to know some of the shining stars in the Best Friends LA volunteer program! Volunteers are either nominated by Best Friends LA staff or other volunteers in our program. If you would like to volunteer, email the Best Friends LA Volunteer Department at volunteerla@bestfriends.org.
Barbara Tauber - Honored October 2018
What BFLA programs/events/volunteer roles do you find yourself participating in?
Best Friends Grey Paw Dog Volunteer, Best Friends Mentor – Which I love!!!, Volunteered at two (2) Super Adoptions, Volunteered at two (2) mini adoptions, Participated in my first Strut your Mutt Fundraiser – will participate again, Participate in Monthly Hikes and Post Hike Brunches, Assist with Dog Showcasing, Front Office Assist as needed, Assist when needed with Dog Photo Sessions
Why do you choose to volunteer with Best Friends LA?
I watched Dog Town for years and always admired the amazing outreach and work Best Friends does in their Kanab Sanctuary to protect and rescue animals. When my schedule allowed time for volunteering I immediately thought of Best Friends-NKLA. I wanted to work with an organization that was dedicated to reducing and eventually eliminating Kill Shelters in Los Angeles. I have always loved animals especially dogs and wanted to do my part to help save and assist in finding loving forever homes for dogs.
How long have you been a BFLA/NKLA volunteer?
I started volunteering with Best Friends April 2017, one year 6 months ago. My time at NKLA has been amazing, I have been warmly welcomed by the staff, management and volunteers and of course by our furry friends. It is truly a joy be a part of such a wonderful and organized group.
What do you do when you're not volunteering (career/extracurricular activities)?
When not volunteering with NKLA, I assist my sister with her business, mostly helping to select fabrics and designs for the upcoming season. Enjoy attending the Theater, dining out with friends and exploring historic sites in and around Los Angeles
Do you have a favorite story to share about an experience volunteering with Best Friends LA? Share it!
My family has always had small dogs in our home, I was not comfortable with large dogs specifically Pitbulls. Volunteering at NKLA I am exposed to large dos and pits. I grew comfortable interacting and opened my heart to these gentle and loving dogs. They have been some of the sweetest and loving guests at NKLA. I can now share my story with potential adopters, to always look at the dog’s personality, watch how they interact with you, rather than a misconception based on size and breed.
What others are saying about Barbara:
Barbara is a one in a million volunteer! Her warmth, energy and compassion for not only our animals but for all volunteers is truly inspiring. She is one of our most versatile volunteers helping in almost every area of the center. And she is without questions one of our most incredible mentor volunteers helping countless new volunteers begin their time at the center. We (all-staff) love Barbara and are honored that we know her and get to work with her. Thank you for everything Barbara! Your contribution to our team truly helps us save more lives! - Justin (Volunteer Coordinator)