As Volunteer Coordinator I would like to take a moment to praise the individuals who donate so much of themselves to our shelter and the animals we care for. In a day when deadlines and schedules rule out lives, it is somethimes difficult to fit in all the things we would like to do with our loved ones. We are fortunate enough to have entire families who choose to spend that all important "Quality Time" here with us. Volunteering not only offers us a chance to help others, in fact, when families volunteer together, parents have the unique opportunity to teach their children compassion, self worth and community involvement. For those of you who will consider becoming part of our family, let me tell you about the variety of volunteering options there are at CVHS.

Altough small, CVHS takes in, treats, cares for and adopts out over 3000 animals every year. Staff and volunteers alike share a deep love for the work they do here as well as a heartfelt commitment to the health, welfare and happiness of each and every animal that crosses our threshold. The commitment you make to Chocheco Valley and to yourself is vital. In your position as volunteer you are a representative of this shelter. All potential volunteers are required to fill out an application and attend an orientation. Orientations are held twice a month on Tuesdays and Fridays and last approximately one hour. (This could be more or less depending on size of class) Afterwards, you may set the schedule you wish and begin to volunteer at one or more of the many positions we have available. These include:

Animal Care Giver
Visiting Companions
BINGO
Humane Education
General Office Aid
Foster Parent Program
General Repairs & Ground Work
Adoption Call Backs & Check-ups

If you are outgoing and love to be in the thick of things, then "Special Events Volunteer" may be your cup of tea. Throughout the year we sponsor or attend numerous events requiring volunteers just like yourself.

Upcoming events include:

Paws Cause 4-mile Road Race	August 28
Rochester Fair	September 18th - 26
Last Vegas Night	September 25
Apple Harvest	October 3
Halloween Howl	October 31
Veggie Fest	October 18
Craft Fair	November 28
X-Mas Gift Wrapping & Santa Photos	December (tba)

All in all, the Volunteers of Cocheco Valley Humane Society are a very special lot and without a doubt, the backbone of our organization. From walking dogs to cleaning kennels, from "Visiting Companions" to Humane Education, from answering phones to newsletter mailings, you demonstrate daily by word and by deed what truly exceptional people you are. You have our sincere and heartfelt thanks.