Story #45: Building a Community of Compassion
As told by Christa Oody, Volunteer Engagement Manager
Coming Back and Finding Purpose
Four years ago, I re-entered the workforce after taking time off to be home with my kids. I had no idea that stepping into Anderson Humane would become one of the most meaningful chapters of my life. What I thought was a job quickly became something much more. It connected me to a mission, a community, and a purpose.
From my very first day, I was struck by the heart inside this organization. Volunteers showed up with passion and dedication, pouring themselves into caring for animals who needed comfort, patience, and love.
It was immediately clear that I was stepping into something bigger than myself.
Some of my favorite moments are during meet-and-greets with potential adopters.
There is something powerful about watching a family connect with an animal for the first time. You can see it happen. A shift. A spark. A smile that says this is the one.
Those moments never get old, and they remind me why this work matters. Beyond adoption, I also witness transformation every single day. Animals grow in confidence. Families open their homes. Volunteers stretch themselves in ways they never expected.
As I settled into my role, I had the opportunity to help grow our foster and volunteer programs. Watching families say yes to fostering, sometimes again and again, has been one of the greatest joys of my career. Every adoption feels like a celebration. Every foster goodbye carries pride and hope.
Over time, our volunteers became more than a team. They became a second family.
We have navigated hard days together and celebrated incredible successes. We have seen animals arrive scared and uncertain, only to leave confident and loved. Those stories stay with you.
This work has taught me empathy, resilience, and the power of teamwork. It has shown me what is possible when people rally around a shared purpose.
Anderson Humane is more than a shelter. It is a place where connection happens every day.
It is where animals and people find each other. It is where compassion turns into action.
I am proud to be part of a community that believes in second chances and shows up for them. Every day here is another opportunity to make a difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them.
And that is a privilege I never take for granted.
Do you have a story about how Anderson Humane changed your life?
We would love to hear it – Submit Your Story Here!
Ready to start your own rescue story?
Meet adoptable animals at Anderson Humane by visiting ahconnects.org/adopt, or help make the next 60 stories possible by donating in honor of our 60th Anniversary.
Interested in becoming a Volunteer?
Visit ahconnects.org/volunteer/ for more information on how you can get involved.
Interested in starting your own Foster Journey?
Visit us at ahconnects.org/foster-2/ for more information or email fosters@ahconnects.org
