This month we’re celebrating Joanne McCormick, a volunteer who puts 100% of her heart into doing the most she can for VOKRA’s kitties. Joanne’s currently an active member of both the adoption counselling team and the adoption contract team. Until recently she also managed VOKRA's on-line store, but has stepped away from that role as she’s moving to the Okanagan.

Here Joanne tells us in her own words why she volunteers with VOKRA:

How did you start volunteering with VOKRA?

In 2015, we adopted two VOKRA kitties from different fosters; Kalea was a semi-feral female and Zorro a stray male. I loved the philosophy and how each of VOKRA’s cats were being lovingly cared for in foster, prior to moving to their forever homes. Both our cats relaxed in their new home and after a slow introduction, enjoyed each other's company as well as ours! Sadly, we lost Kalea two years ago, and Zorro mourned her loss. Being the first year of the pandemic, cats were in high demand at all kitty rescues, but after being on several waiting lists, we adopted a young mama, named Cashew, who was looking for her new family.

Since our original adoption with VOKRA, I thought it would be fabulous to join their team as a volunteer, and not only learn more about the work they undertake but also to share my experience as well. Being relatively newly retired, I started my VOKRA volunteer journey in the Fall of 2020 carrying out adoption contracts, then added adoptions counselling to my duties in September 2021, as well as taking responsibility for the on-line merchandise store. Since then, I’ve also become a trainer and mentor to new adoption counsellors coming onboard our team. I'm constantly inspired by the dedicated members on every team at VOKRA and love that I gain new knowledge all the time.

What’s your favourite part of volunteering?

Last year (2021), I was responsible for kitty-matching and/or adoption paperwork for more than one third of the 1,146 cats adopted to their forever families and homes ! It makes my heart sing that so many people have added new furry feline friends to their family and I especially love post-adoption photos showing contentment and happiness.

Do you have a favourite kitty(s) you’ve met or a favourite story from your time with VOKRA?

There are so many fantastic cats I’ve successfully matched to their new families. By far, I find it most rewarding arranging the perfect match for inexperienced adopters, guiding them through the process and teaching by sharing experiences and ultimately seeing how happy everyone is after their transition. Of course, it goes without saying, but my favourite cats are Zorro and Cashew!

Here's what Stephanie Zaron, adoption counselling team lead, has to say about Joanne:

“Joanne’s a dream volunteer who puts 100% of her heart into doing the most she can for our cats. Her dedication to VOKRA has led her to be a core member of two teams and we are proud to volunteer alongside her. She’s passionate about her roles and goes above and beyond to ensure she finds the perfect match for kitties and adopters, especially those who have the most trouble finding homes. Joanne stays positive no matter what, which is exactly what everyone needs on their team.”

Audrey Jeary, adoption contracts team lead adds:

“I’m honoured to write a few words about Joanne. This recognition is so well deserved! Joanne came to contracts in September 2020 and immediately after training jumped right in and hasn't stopped. Her work load has been significant in more than one area. Joanne’s thorough, instills trust and has no problem talking to adopters and getting all the information required. She’s a team player and goes out of her way at any time to be helpful to others. Having her on my team makes my job easier and I'm grateful to have her.”

THANK YOU Joanne for all your hard work, time and dedication to helping the kitties in our care find the best forever homes! We truly appreciate your positivity and passion.

As a volunteer-driven non-profit, we clearly couldn’t do what we do without our extremely dedicated and hardworking team of volunteers. Thank you to each and every one of you!

VOKRA’s always in need of volunteers. If you’re interested in volunteering click here.

Volunteer of the Month: June 2022

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