Volunteer Spotlight: Ann Mikolajczak

Ann Mikolajczak has always been an animal lover, and when she found herself with some extra free time, she looked into volunteering with HSMO. That was when she found HSMO’s education department.

“As a former art teacher, I was excited to get involved!” she says.

Ann has been volunteering with HSMO’s education department for a few years and has enjoyed the opportunities it offers. She says some of her favorites include being able to bring her dog, Bear, to schools to teach assemblies or into the community for outreach programs.

“I’m also an artist, so I always jump at the chance to use those skills while volunteering. I do face painting at events, teach art projects during summer camp, and help with the incredible sets TJ creates for the campers to match each summer’s camp theme,” she says. (She’s pictured here working on this year’s summer camp set!)

At the heart of her volunteer work is a passion for animal advocacy.

“I believe when we teach children empathy for animals, we’re changing their lives and the lives of animals,” she says.

Ann says she has countless favorite volunteer experiences, but one in particular sticks out. She recalls speaking to a group of children about the education department’s ball python, Jasper, and how one little boy in particular was nervous about petting her. Ann says he got more comfortable, though.

“He told me, ‘I always thought snakes were mean. We live by the woods and there are a lot of snakes. I used to walk around stomping on them in my boots, but now that I’ve met a cool snake, I’ll just leave them alone.’ What a difference that simple interaction made for that child and a lot of animals!”

When she first started volunteering, Ann said she was afraid she would be too sad seeing animals in a shelter environment, but her perspective shifted when she got involved more.

“Boy, was I wrong about that! It’s uplifting to see the incredible care and commitment the staff gives each animal. They are in the best place possible! Also, it’s a fun, friendly environment where you can set your own schedule and choose from lots of activities. You might be surprised at how your unique talents might be used, too!”

Learn more about volunteering by clicking here.