Volunteers acknowledged during National Volunteer Week 2010

Press Release issued: 5 May 2010 at 6:42pm

National Volunteer Week (running from 10-16 May) serves as an opportunity to acknowledge over 200 volunteers that help Cat Haven in Shenton Park provide a shelter for over 8000 homeless cats and kittens every year.

Jemima Berridge of Floreat is one of these volunteers whose hard work and commitment helps Cat Haven support and rehome thousands of animals every year.

Jemima started helping out at the shelter last year as a kennel hand, assisting with fundraising events and also as a foster carer for cats and kittens in need of special care to help them transition back into the community.

"I started volunteering because I really wanted to make a difference to the lives of cats," Ms Berridge said.

"I wasn’t in the position to commit to owning a cat, but these animals give so much back so by volunteering I felt I was enriching their lives and supporting a really great cause at the same time."

Ms Berridge said volunteering was a highly rewarding experience.

"You never leave Cat Haven feeling like you have wasted a second of your day."

"It's an amazing feeling knowing you have made a difference."

"You also get to meet a lot of really great community spirited people and have a lot of fun too, I’d definitely recommend volunteering to others."

Cat Haven Operations Manager Roz Robinson said without the dedication and commitment of volunteers the shelter would not be able to provide the valuable service it does for the Perth community.

"It takes a very special person to become a volunteer," Ms Robinson said.

"To give up hours of your free time to help us support unwanted cats and help us improve cat welfare in WA and is a commendable character trait."

Ms Robinson said Cat Haven was always in need of more volunteers.

"No matter where your skill set lies, there are so many areas where you can help," Ms Robinson said

"Whether it be foster caring, becoming a kennel hand, helping with our events and fundraising or administration there’s a job to suit everyone’s interests and lifestyle."

For more information on how to become a volunteer or to download a volunteering application visit www.cathaven.com.au/volunteering or phone 9442 3600.

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