“The Evanston Animal Shelter (EAS) is a very special place for both the animals and the volunteers. My husband and I joined the dog volunteers in July 2023, right after we moved to Evanston from out of state. As we get involved in more activities, we are more and more astonished by the variety of ways EAS advocates for the animals’ well-being. Every dog gets 4 walks every day, we play and cuddle with them, and we have a part-time trainer to help us work on behavioral issues. In our opinion, EAS’ distinguishing characteristic is that love drives every single action. All the staff will always go the extra mile to advocate for the dogs, get them the best possible life while they are at the shelter, and place them with a family that fits their personality and needs. Since volunteering at EAS, we found a gorgeous community that has become family. Our favorite day of the week is when we go to our shift or participate in a shelter activity. We adopted a second dog, and our hearts cannot be fuller of love.”
“I started volunteering with EAS in October of 2024. I had just moved to Evanston and my dog recently passed away. I was looking for a place where I could both interact with animals and build a community within Evanston, and EAS delivered on both fronts! My favorite part of volunteering is being able to build a bond with the dogs– we usually try to have people walk the same dogs week to week and seeing them grow in confidence and learn new skills before they go to a home is so rewarding”
“I first became aware of the Evanston Animal Shelter in 2015 when my wife Jennifer and I adopted our dog, Oliver. We began volunteering there in 2018, and since then, we’ve welcomed another dog, Sunny, and two cats, Roger and Kobe, into our family.
Knowing this wonderful organization has been a true blessing. The Evanston Animal Shelter is dedicated to helping countless cats and dogs through both good times and bad.
Their commitment to the community through programs like custodial care, the pet food pantry, and other initiatives is truly inspiring. It’s remarkable how such a small organization can make such a significant impact.”
“Volunteering with Evanston Animal Shelter has given me much needed purpose and fulfillment after my beloved shelter dog passed away. In the short 6 months I’ve been here, I’ve bonded with the dogs and humans alike and have found a tremendous sense of community. I wholeheartedly believe in the mission of this shelter and happily pour my time and love into kennel shifts, adoption counseling, and even opening my home to foster spunky little Gladys. Every dog, cat, and person who finds their way to EAS has hit the jackpot!”
“When I moved to Evanston, I was looking for a nearby shelter to volunteer for since my previous one was now too far away. Every shift I’ve volunteered at EAS I’ve left feeling connections between the lovely dogs and people alike. Spending a few hours a week at the shelter gave me the confidence to adopt my own dog and I’ve been able to make friends along the way.”
“When I started volunteering at EAS in 2021, I was just looking for a place to pet some dogs while I was attending college, away from my furry family. I had no idea how much this place would come to mean to me; the dogs are obviously amazing, but I’ve really stayed for the community. Coming here one night a week for the last few years has given me stability, friendships, and a sense of belonging. I absolutely could not love EAS any more, and I am so grateful for all of the wonderful dogs and people I have met here!”
“I started volunteering with EAS in October of 2024. I had just moved to Evanston and my dog recently passed away. I was looking for a place where I could both interact with animals and build a community within Evanston, and EAS delivered on both fronts! My favorite part of volunteering is being able to build a bond with the dogs– we usually try to have people walk the same dogs week to week and seeing them grow in confidence and learn new skills before they go to a home is so rewarding”
