The Lori Kauffman Volunteer Of The Month Award

Kate Morris is the recipient of the March 2008 Lori Kauffman Volunteer of the Month Award

Kate, her husband and their four children adopted their Golden, Millie, in January of 2007. In November an email was sent to the membership asking if anyone would be willing to foster Smokey and her nine puppies. Fortunately for us, Kate Morris responded that her family would be very interested in fostering this mother and her litter. After discussing the details, Kate went to meet Smokey and her litter to bring them safely into her home. After bringing the dogs home, we didn't hear from Kate for several days, which is unusual for a new foster let alone one with nine puppies! The Morris family was not only taking this new adventure in stride but seemed to be truly enjoying it. When time came for the puppies to be weaned, Smokey was moved to another location in order to make the weaning process a bit easier. The whole Morris family has been very involved with the litter and has brought them to Adoption Days, which is no small feat now that they are around 12 weeks old and getting bigger each day. The only request we've had from Kate was for donations of food and we were happy to comply. Kate's willingness to help us in our time of need is greatly appreciated. When told about the Volunteer of the Month nomination, Kate insisted that her daughter, Magee, share in the glory, 'since she helps the most with the puppies'.

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.