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Dear John,
Helping homeless pets is just as rewarding for you as it is for them. Maybe more. For every walk, you get unbridled tail wags. For every clean bed, eyes filled with gratitude. For every meal, a happy head bump.
Every day, PAWS volunteers help by walking dogs, socializing cats, doing laundry, feeding pets, driving, training, fostering, clinic support, stuffing mailers, and so much more. In 2023 alone, 3,176 volunteers contributed 106,221 hours of service, equal to 51 full-time employees!
“I’ve been with PAWS for almost three years,” says Becky Murrow, Assistant Director of Volunteer Programs, “and it never ceases to amaze me how much our volunteers are willing to support our efforts.”
However, volunteer Alicia Haruska has a simple explanation: “I'm certain I don't give as much as I get in return.” Alicia works mainly at our Adoption Center as a Dog Town volunteer and Adoption Counselor.
“The appreciation and gratitude expressed by shelter staff, fellow volunteers, and the animals themselves is incredibly meaningful and uplifting. To see the wagging tail of a dog about to go for a walk or play session can instantly make anyone smile,” says Alicia.
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Moreover, volunteering has given Alicia’s life new meaning.
“Knowing that my efforts directly contribute to improving the lives of PAWS animals in need is huge. The sense of fulfillment I get from helping animals find loving homes or providing care and support is incredibly rewarding. It’s enriched my life,” says Alicia.
Last but certainly not least, “PAWS has given me an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. I've gained more confidence, compassion, empathy, and a sense of purpose as I make a positive impact on the lives of these animals,” she says.
Ready to Get More Than You Give?
PAWS has volunteer tasks and roles that meet the skills and interests of anyone who wishes to help!
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Gus’s Turn of Fate
Hurt and alone on the side of the road, Gus beat the odds to cross paths with PAWS.
Read His Rescue Story
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Upcoming Adoption Events
Gearhead Outfitters Adoption Event
Saturday, March 2, noon–3 p.m.
Gearhead Outfitters
621 Central Ave, Highland Park, IL 60035
Looking for a best friend who can keep up with your active lifestyle? Look no further. PAWS Chicago is bringing athletic, adoptable dogs to Gearhead Outfitters in Highland Park. Stop by and take your first step toward a new adventure.
North Shore New Friend
Saturday, March 9, noon–3 p.m.
Glenn L. Felner North Shore Adoption Center
1616 Deerfield Rd, Highland Park, IL 60035
Calling all animal lovers in the northern suburbs! PAWS is bringing adoptable dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens to Highland Park for an afternoon of mixing, mingling, and shaking paws. With luck, your family will be a little larger when you leave.
Barn Owl Adoption Event
Saturday, March 23, noon–3 p.m.
Barn Owl Garden Center
1N583 S Gary Ave, Carol Stream, IL 60188
PAWS Chicago is coming to the western suburbs. Join us at the Barn Owl Garden Center in Carol Stream where, for one afternoon only, you’ll find more than produce, home decorations, and garden items—you’ll also find adorable, adoptable dogs and cats!
See All Adoptable Pets
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Junior Rescuers Youth Tours
The 2nd Saturday of Every Month, 10:30–Noon.
Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center
1997 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Join us at 10:30 a.m. on the second Saturday of every month for a tour of our Lincoln Park Adoption Center. On this tour, kids ages 5–12 get a chance to learn about PAWS Chicago, our mission, and caring for dogs and cats both in the shelter and at home. Plus, there’s time set aside to get to know our puppies and kittens!
This is a perfect opportunity for Scout troops, school groups, families, and kids to get a first-hand look at what it means to give homeless pets a second chance. Sign up now.
Please note: There must be ONE (1) adult chaperone for every FOUR (4) children.
Register for a Tour
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Peter Fasseas Golf Open
Monday, June 10, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
Westmoreland Country Club
2601 Old Glenview Rd, Wilmette, IL 60091
Enjoy a day of golf with on-course entertainment, including cocktail & food tasting stations, contests, prizes, a Golf Ball Shooter, and photo stations with adoptable pets. Then, top it off with a dinner reception and auction, all to benefit No Kill programs that give homeless dogs and cats a second chance at life and years of happiness.
The event is almost sold out with a few spots remaining. Secure your spot today!
Tee Up and Save Lives!
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Apply to be a Summer Intern
Gain valuable experience in animal welfare and non-profit work with Chicago’s largest No Kill organization. A national leader in the No Kill movement, PAWS Chicago offers a variety of internships for college students seeking career experience and training by industry professionals. Applications are due on March 15.
Apply for an Internship
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Best Pet Adoption or Animal Shelter & Best Place to Work 2023
We are excited to share that PAWS Chicago has won “Best Pet Adoption or Animal Shelter” and “Best Place to Work” in the Chicago Reader Best of Chicago 2023 poll!
With thousands of votes tallied, this recognition highlights your incredible support, and it will enable us to continue our lifesaving mission. Thank you!
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Slice to Meet You!
Find adoptable dogs featured on Piece pizza boxes, and enjoy monthly, limited-edition pizzas created to benefit homeless pets!
$10 from every specialty pie goes to PAWS Chicago. Bill Jacobs, owner of Piece Pizza, also secured donors to match the $10 per specialty pizza. With the matches from Bill Jacobs, CuraLinc Healthcare, Laura Desmond (Founder & CEO of Eagle Vista Partners), and Attorney Leonard Goodman, every specialty pie ordered will result in a $50 donation to PAWS Chicago.
This month, chow down on Chef Stephanie Izard’s Savory Spicy Sausage Situation. And in March, get your fill of Rick Bayless’ returning Bayless Family Pizza with roasted tomatillo salsa, crispy bacon, red onion, goat cheese, pepperjack, cilantro, and jalapenos.
Get a Taste
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Joy for Juniper
For more than 600 days, Juniper waited for a home. No one was a match...until Andrea and Kevin.
Read Juniper's Story
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