A Young Person’s Point of View;

Why I Volunteer at the SPCA
By: Mikaela Kursell

Everyone has a passion. At some point in their lives, every single person will find that “special something” that for them just works; a favorite past time that blossoms until the person simply can’t remember how they survived life without it. For me, the SPCA is that entity; it has comfortably settled into my daily schedule, and has quickly mushroomed into something much more than just a piece of paper checkered with community service hours.

My friends don’t understand it: How could someone my age actually enjoy working, when making my bed is a struggle? What could possess me to voluntarily give up countless hours of ‘hanging-out’ time for the sake of a clean stall? Being a volunteer is anything but glamorous; there are stalls to clean, horses to groom, and Lord knows that many times, the weather doesn’t cooperate. Summer nights are hot, and summer days even hotter; not the ideal temperature for shoveling shavings nor for wheel-barreling sand from ring to ring. But nevertheless, volunteering at the SPCA is perhaps the best thing I have ever done for myself not to mention, it is the only whole hearted act that this self-centered teen has done for others.

Obviously, the awareness that I’m giving back to the community is a big part of it. Today’s world is hardly a friendly one; and growing up in it is hardly easy. There are serious issues we all have to deal with, both internally and externally. Volunteering, however, serves as a constant reminder of the good that thrives and the efforts being made to preserve it. The fact that I can contribute is phenomenal. For me, the hours I spend training young horses or nursing the injured are sources of self-confidence, not to mention great for reflection and for some peace of mind.

Then, of course, there are the gifts that the SPCA has given me, making it a truly symbiotic relationship. Each day, something new is happening, and with it new lessons are born. The SPCA attracts a “dim sum” of different people; individuals who are interesting and knowledgeable, and have talent and wisdom which they wish to share with others for the sake of each and every horse, pony, cow, pig, goat, dog, cat, raccoon, or even llama that steps foot, hoof, or paw beyond its heavenly gates. Volunteering has allowed me to make irreplaceable friends, and has given me the opportunity to connect with others who are equally as passionate as I am about animal rescue. Their dedication is truly amazing and inspiring.

And, most importantly, there are the many grateful faces of the animals. Their sweet sighs during an anticipated “bubble bath” is enough to do it for me.

So, if anyone asks me why I choose to volunteer at the SPCA, the answer is simple. I tell them to open their eyes. Look at the thoroughbred with his protruding ribs and matted mane; go play with the Paso mare with the scarred face and troubled past; and watch the emaciated foal tremble, sore and lonely from abandonment.

I think the gleam in their eyes, that flutter of hope, will speak for itself.