Volunteer Spotlight: Cindy Connally
Cindy with her dogs, Izzy and Trooper.
Meet Cindy Connally! For 15 years, Army veteran Cindy has been a dedicated volunteer at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, making a lasting impact on pets and the people who love them.
As a Bath Brigade volunteer, she’s helped shelter pets feel their best, giving matted or dirty animals the care they need to shine. During the shelter’s former Dog-a-Thon event, she brought energy and enthusiasm to one of its biggest community events. Now, as a Pet Food & Supply Pantry volunteer, Cindy helps stock shelves and delivers pet food and supplies to community members in need, ensuring pets stay fed and families stay together. Her dedication has touched countless lives!
We caught up with Cindy to learn more about her volunteer journey, what keeps her coming back after 15 years, and the moments that have made the biggest impact on her. Read on for our Q&A!
Q. What’s most rewarding about volunteering?
A. Seeing my clients’ faces and their pets during my monthly food deliveries is incredibly rewarding. They’re always happy to see me and relieved to have food for their pets without stretching their already limited resources. I grew to cherish these deliveries during the COVID-19 pandemic when many were struggling.
One client told me about her trip to the vet with her cat, she had to take the bus, then wait outside in the rain while her pet was in the vet clinic as patrons weren’t allowed inside. It really brought it home to me how many good people were, and still are struggling to care for themselves and their pets. It made me realize that I can help make a difference in our community alongside the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County.
Q. What made you decide to volunteer at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County?
A. After retiring from the Army, I knew I wanted to give back to my community, and with my lifelong love of animals, it was clear that I wanted to do something to help them. I had attended numerous Dog-a-Thon events, where I got to see so many people out with their pets, so I knew where to look. It just made sense to join and be a part of the team.
Q. What advice can you offer those who are considering volunteering at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County?
Cindy with her 14-year-old rescue dog, Izzy.
A. I encourage anyone interested in volunteering to consider the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. There are so many different opportunities to give back to your community and help animals and people in need. There are shifts that can accommodate nearly any schedule, and roles range from administrative support to hands-on tasks like event assistance or dog walking. The shelter depends on volunteers to help, so help is always needed!
We want to thank Cindy for chatting with us, and sharing her time and energy to our shelter. Our community is made stronger by kind people like her.
Interested in becoming a volunteer or foster? Check out our opportunities.
