As Told by Laura Mikolajczyk: Dedicated Volunteer
This week, as we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week, we are excited to spotlight Laura Mikolajczyk. For over three years, Laura has been a bright presence in our cat care department. Her journey with Anderson Humane began during a challenging time in 2020. While looking for healthy ways to cope with the stresses of the world, she and her therapist hit on the perfect idea: volunteering at an animal shelter. Lacking “critter cuddles” of her own at the time, Laura reached out to Anderson Humane and found much more than just a hobby – she found a community.
A Life-Changing Connection
One of the most defining moments of Laura’s time with us was meeting her very first cat, Bilbo (then known as “Kippy”). The second she saw him, she knew he was meant to be hers. Bilbo was a senior cat who spent several beautiful years with Laura before passing away, but his legacy lives on in her heart. Since that first adoption, Laura’s passion for rescue has only grown – she has gone on to adopt five cats and foster another, proving that sometimes the person who walks through the door to help is the one who ends up finding exactly what they needed.
The Healing Power of Community
To Laura, volunteering is a source of pure happiness. She describes the atmosphere at Anderson Humane as warm and welcoming – a place where she can instantly relax the moment she walks through the door. Between the “awesome” fellow volunteers, the dedicated staff, and the endless fun of interacting with the cats, Laura has found a sanctuary for her own well-being while providing a sanctuary for the animals in her care.
Building a Legacy of Kindness
Laura’s dedication reminds us that the bond between humans and animals is a powerful tool for healing. By consistently showing up for our cats and recommending Anderson Humane to everyone she knows, she has helped spread the message of compassion throughout our community. During Volunteer Appreciation Week, we celebrate Laura for her kind spirit and for showing us how much joy can be found in giving back.
Join Our Volunteer Family
By volunteering with Anderson Humane, you will join dedicated individuals like Laura in our shared commitment to animal welfare and community connection. Your participation ensures that we can continue to provide the vital social support and dedicated time that shelter animals need to feel safe and secure. By spending quality time with them and helping them socialize, you play a vital role in easing their transition from the shelter into a loving home, preparing them for the day they meet their future family.
If Laura’s journey inspires you and you are interested in making a difference through our volunteer programs, we would love to hear from you. Your compassion provides the comfort these animals deserve while they wait for their next step.
Visit us at ahconnects.org/volunteer/ for more information.
