The Lori Kauffman Volunteer Of The Month Award

John Miller is the recipient of the July 2008 Lori Kauffman Volunteer of the Month Award

Our Volunteer of the Month for July is John Miller! John volunteers for GRRA in a multitude of ways. First, he's the storage guy! John stores GRRA merchandise, such as T-shirts and sweatshirts, in his home and brings them to events, such as Adoption Day. Next, he coordinates the hikes along with Lisa Ferestad and even fostered a dog the group found en route to a hike. Notices were posted for several weeks advertising a dog that was found. When no one ever responded, GRRA found a new forever home for the dog. John has taxied dogs to Adoption Day or vet appointments. He volunteers at most Adoption Days in whatever capacity needed. Overall, he is willing to help GRRA wherever he is needed.

Leaders in GRRA have learned that John can be counted on to be present at most GRRA events. Even if he doesn't respond that he will attend an event, they know he will be there, sacrificing his Saturdays for the group. Not only is John a dependable volunteer, he's also a pleasure to be around.

Before volunteering with GRRA, John volunteered with Dixie Golden Retriever Rescue. When that group was consolidated with GRRA, John began volunteering with GRRA, approximately four years ago. Of all the GRRA events, John like the hikes and other group activities that include dogs most of all. These events allow GRRA members and volunteers to enjoy being together in a social setting.

John has two dogs, a purebred golden retriever and a chocolate lab. John literally rescued both dogs but not through a rescue group. John acquired his golden retriever, Buddy, through a co-worker who had a friend who was moving and needed to find his dog a new home. John's co-worker knew John volunteered with rescue groups, so he brought the dog to work so that John could find a home for it through a rescue group. John took the Buddy home, and Buddy never left! Buddy often attends GRRA events with John. His chocolate lab, Allie, belonged to John's sister's neighbor. Allie was an escape artist, leaving her yard everyday and going to John's sister's house. The neighbor tried many ways to keep Allie in his yard, but she kept escaping. Finally, after John's sister repeatedly offered that John could take Allie, the neighbor agreed. It's a good thing for Allie because she had heartworms and tumors. John got medical treatment for her, and she recovered nicely. Allie now has arthritis, so she is unable to attend many GRRA events.

John's pleasant personality and dedication to GRRA make him a wonderful example of what a volunteer should be. Thank you, John, for your dedication to GRRA and willingness to help out wherever needed!

Lori Kauffman, who passed away in 2007, was a GRRA™ volunteer who wanted to ensure that GRRA™ continued to do its valuable work. Lori wanted people to know, "Dogs are not disposable. Having a dog is a lifelong commitment. They are an equal part of the family".

If you are aware of a volunteer's efforts that exemplify what is needed to make our volunteer organization survive and thrive, please send a note to volunteer@grra.com. Monthly Nominations are due by the 17th of each month. Click here to see previous award winners.