Operation Kindness Humane Society was founded in 1976 by a group of volunteers committed to better supporting homeless cats and dogs. What started as a local North Texas shelter has now grown into a lifesaving organization that helps communities across the state and nation.
Volunteers built the foundation of our organization, and today, volunteers remain the heart of Operation Kindness Humane Society. As we commemorate our 50th anniversary, we are celebrating the people behind our mission. This April, we want to honor our current volunteers, who are making the world a kinder place for pets and the people who love them. Meet Elaine and Annette, two of our dedicated volunteers who are inspirations for all of us.
Elaine Jay
For the past 10 years, Elaine has consistently shown up for pets and the community by volunteering with our organization.
There isn’t a volunteer role Elaine hasn’t touched — from walking dogs at our main shelter to supporting our medical team at our Lifesaving Partnerships Hub to serving families at our Pet Food Pantry.
When asked why she volunteers with us, Elaine admits it’s not only the adorable pets whose lives she helps transform, but also the staff who are always so appreciative of volunteers.
“I’ve been a volunteer for 10 years, and what keeps me coming back are the people who are just so amazing to work with,” Elaine said. “But also, you can’t look at a kitten or a dog and not want to come back every time.”
Annette Winbery
Despite volunteering with Operation Kindness Humane Society for years, Annette has never had two days that look the same. With over 50+ opportunities for volunteers to get involved with, Annette jumped at the chance to learn about different areas in animal welfare.
“I like to learn; it keeps me going and trying different things,” Annette said.
Originally, she dedicated most of her time to walking dogs. However, after befriending cat lovers, Annette became curious and decided to learn more about felines herself. With her lack of experience with cats, especially kittens, she took a chance and signed up for volunteer shifts at our neonatal kitten nursery.
By working closely with our nursery staff, Annette has gained knowledge that she wouldn’t have been able to obtain without volunteering.
With various roles available, even ones that don’t even require animal handling, there is a place at Operation Kindness Humane Society for everyone. Annette’s advice to prospective volunteers is simple — just try.
Join Our Volunteer Team
Thank you to all our volunteers, our work is only possible with your support and commitment. Every hour volunteering has impacted the lives of not only pets, but also our staff and community members.
For anyone interested in learning about animal welfare, join our volunteer team today! Our volunteer program is an essential part of Operation Kindness Humane Society and is involved in all aspects of the organization, enabling us to save even more lives. Check out our volunteer page to learn more.
