Stop by one of our campuses, or any of our events, on a given day and you’re guaranteed to see volunteers scurrying around. Assisting with everything from animal care, to adoptions, to administrative tasks, to events, to fostering animals from their own homes, volunteers are a critical part of Oregon Humane’s ecosystem.
Last year, more than 2,700 individuals volunteered a total of 416,720 hours for Oregon Humane—that’s the equivalent of 200 additional full-time employees!
During Volunteer Appreciation Week, April 19-25, Oregon Humane celebrated our hardworking helpers with treats, heartfelt messages, and a series of awards to honor specific individuals’ contributions to the organization.
Congratulations to our 2026 Volunteer Award Winners!
Portland Volunteer of the Year Award – Julie Grasher
We are thrilled to announce that this year’s Portland Volunteer of the Year Award goes to Julie Grasher!
Julie has been a dedicated Oregon Humane volunteer for nearly seven years, and in that time she has made an extraordinary impact on both our dogs and our volunteer community. An exceptional dog handler and trainer, Julie has a remarkable ability to understand what dogs need to stay regulated and supported in a busy shelter environment.
As the founding lead of the Star Pin volunteer dog‑training team, Julie has shaped the program from day one. She is a thoughtful mentor, always ready to guide volunteers who want to deepen their skills and learn how to best support the dogs in our care. She regularly writes detailed behavior updates for the team, collaborates with volunteers on Dog Day Out outings, and ensures that safety remains the top priority in every interaction.
Julie is also wonderfully proactive—meeting dogs and volunteers where they are, helping them succeed by recognizing the right moments to teach, reward, and reinforce calm, relaxed behavior. Her approach helps prevent overstimulation and reduces jumpy/mouthy behaviors, creating a safer and more positive experience for everyone.
Salem Volunteer of the Year – Marianne Fox
We are thrilled to announce that this year’s Salem Volunteer of the Year Award goes to Marianne Fox!
Marianne Fox is being recognized after 13 years of volunteerism. Kennel Buddy, dog walker, mentor, anchor, social media contributor—she’s had many roles, but her fearless advocacy for the animals is what truly sets her apart. Her impact is immeasurable, both as a steady, trusted presence for walking teams and in her remarkable commitment to showing up multiple times a week. Always focused on improving the experience for animals and the people who care for them, Marianne offers candid, thoughtful feedback to the Engagement Team—highlighting what’s working and where we can grow. Her big heart shines through in the way she quickly falls in love with each dog, and nothing holds her back from advocating fiercely on their behalf. Marianne is known for doing what’s right, even when it is not the easiest path, earning deep respect and admiration from those around her, but we know she is in it for the dog snuggles.
Portland Lifetime Achievement Award – Sue Sample
We are honored to recognize Sue Sample as this year’s Portland Lifetime Achievement Volunteer Award recipient!
Sue has been a dedicated Oregon Humane volunteer since 2004, and over the past two decades she has contributed her time, skill, and heart in countless ways—especially to the cats who need her most. She has served as a Cattery Assistant & Socializer, a New Volunteer Orientation Tour Guide, an AMLC Weekend Hospital Assistant, a BMOD Cat volunteer, and previously as a Cat ACT Assistant. Her commitment spans nearly every corner of our feline programs.
Each week, Sue volunteers in Cat BMOD, giving individualized attention to every cat in the program. Whether she’s gently reassuring a fearful, shut‑down cat, rewarding small moments of bravery, or channeling the energy of overstimulated kitties through play, Sue meets each cat exactly where they are. Her calm presence and thoughtful approach help them build confidence, reduce stress, and prepare for life in a loving home.
Through her many years of service, Sue has made a profound and lasting difference in the lives of countless cats—and in the lives of the volunteers and staff who have had the privilege of working alongside her. Her dedication embodies the spirit of this award, and we are deeply grateful for everything she brings to the Oregon Humane community.
Salem Lifetime Achievement – Mindy Fenwrick
We are honored to recognize Mindy Fenwrick as this year’s Salem Lifetime Achievement Volunteer Award recipient!
Mindy Fenwrick is being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for her extraordinary dedication to Oregon Humane, where she has donated nearly 12,000 hours over an incredible 37-year span. Her impact touches nearly everyone who walks through our doors—staff, clients, and fellow volunteers alike. On the cat side, it would be easier to list the roles she hasn’t taken on: from fostering kittens to supporting events to reliably covering full-day shifts in Customer Care, Mindy does it all. She uses her time with intention, steps in wherever she’s needed, and brings a steady, dependable presence to the team. Having witnessed decades of change, Mindy’s continued commitment speaks volumes about her character and passion, making her an invaluable part of Oregon Humane’s past, present, and future.
Portland Rising Star Volunteer Award – Jim Ginotti
We are excited to announce that this year’s Portland Rising Star Volunteer Award goes to Jim Ginotti!
In less than two years at Oregon Humane, Jim has become a familiar, welcoming, and incredibly dependable presence across multiple departments.
Jim has been essential to the success of the Second Chance Program, often volunteering for long‑distance transports to ensure animals arrive safely into our care. His kindness, professionalism, and calm demeanor make him someone we can always count on.
He is also a tremendous support to Centralized Purchasing—delivering supplies to the Salem Campus, assisting with the Food Bank, picking up donations from vendors, and hauling 2,000‑pound pallets of pellet litter from the Gorge, rain or shine. Jim takes on tough, messy work without hesitation and with a great sense of humor that brightens everyone’s day.
On top of all that, Jim joined the Monday night dog‑walking team and quickly became a force of nature. Whether he’s cleaning kennels, working with our most enthusiastic dogs, or learning new skills, he shows up fully—no matter the weather. The dogs adore him, and the team relies on him.
Jim’s dedication, generosity, and willingness to go above and beyond have made a remarkable impact in a short time. We are grateful for everything he brings to Oregon Humane and proud to honor him as this year’s Rising Star Volunteer Award recipient.
Salem Rising Star Volunteer Award – Galen Funk
We are excited to announce that this year’s Salem Rising Star Volunteer Award goes to Galen Funk!
Galen Funk, this year’s Rising Star Award winner, has made an incredible impact in just over a year of volunteering since his start in February 2025. With 109 hours of service already contributed, Galen has shown exceptional dedication through his consistent weekly shifts as both a dog walker and a Clinic Canine Courier. His reliability and willingness to take on multiple roles have made him an amazing part of the team. Fellow volunteers have described Galen as a “master” when it comes to working with shy and fearful dogs, highlighting his patience, intuition, and calm approach. Galen’s compassion and commitment truly embody the spirit of the Rising Star Award. We are excited to see the continued difference he will make in the lives of our animals and community.
Portland Events Volunteer Award – Allie Doctor
We are happy to present this year’s Portland Events Volunteer Award to our Special Events superstar, Allie Doctor!
Some volunteers make a difference, and some redefine what it means to show up. Allie is the latter. She consistently goes above and beyond—arriving early, staying late, and anticipating needs before anyone even asks. Whether she’s supporting community events, sorting merchandise, organizing supplies, or handling the less‑glamorous tasks (including more than her fair share of puppy‑poop moments), Allie does it all with a smile and an unwaveringly positive attitude.
Her dedication, reliability, and genuine care for both people and animals set a standard that inspires everyone around her. A steady, ridiculously dependable presence, Allie is truly the rock of the Events Team and an essential part of what makes our work possible.
Salem Events Volunteer Award – Tom and Patti Sieg
We are happy to present this year’s Salem Events Volunteer Award to our Special Events superstars, Tom and Patti Sieg!
Tom and Patti are just one of those couples you can always count on – and they’re a lot of fun to have around too! In the shelter, Tom is a Star Pin Dog Handler and a steady, go-to help in Dog Walking, especially when things get busy or a dog needs a little extra patience and skill. Patti works hard in Cat Cleaning and also gives her time to other community volunteer work, which shows how deeply she cares about helping others. They both bring great energy, strong work ethic, and honestly, a lot of personality to the shelter – they’re a hoot! But what really sets them apart is how they show up for Events. They’re always ready to jump in – whether it’s early mornings setting up, helping through long event days, or heading up to Portland to support Oregon Humane efforts across the state. They don’t hesitate, they don’t complain, they just show up and get it done. Tom and Patti are incredibly deserving of this year’s Events Volunteer Award.
Portland Foster Volunteer Award – Alicia Fligg
We are delighted to recognize Alicia Fligg as this year’s Portland Foster Care Volunteer Award recipient!
As a first‑time foster, Alicia stepped up in an extraordinary way when two young ringworm kittens—Frankie and Francis—urgently needed care. Both kittens were also battling URI, making their case especially complex and challenging. Alicia embraced their needs with compassion, patience, and unwavering dedication, guiding them through a full four months of treatment and recovery. Her commitment ensured these high‑needs kittens received the stability and support they needed to heal.
Taking on a medical case like Frankie and Francis is no small task, especially for a brand‑new foster. Alicia went above and beyond at every step, showing deep love for the kittens and remarkable perseverance through their lengthy recovery. Cases like theirs can be difficult to place, and her willingness to say “yes” speaks volumes about her compassion and commitment to animals. In addition to her lifesaving care, Alicia consistently showed kindness and respect to staff, making her a joy to work with.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Alicia as part of our foster community. Her dedication truly embodies the spirit of this award.
Salem Foster Award – Vickie Clarke-Ellis
We are delighted to recognize Vickie Clarke-Ellis as this year’s Salem Foster Care Volunteer Award recipient!
Vickie (with the help of her husband, Jon) is our go-to puppy foster! She has fostered pregnant dogs, mama dogs with nursing puppies, bottle baby puppies, weaned puppies, and medical dogs. Her two dogs, Yeti and Percy, are both former foster puppies of hers and have since helped her raise other foster puppies. In addition to numerous foster hours, she has also donated supplies to the foster department. Both the Salem and Portland foster departments are extremely grateful for her abilities and special foster setup!
Portland Youth Volunteer of the Year Award – Dalani Sandoval
We are proud to recognize Dalani Sandoval as the recipient of this year’s Portland Youth Volunteer of the Year Award!
Dalani has been a Youth Volunteer for just over 4 years, and in that time, she’s left a lasting impact on the people and pets of Oregon Humane. From translating lobby signage into Spanish, to planting Spring flowers, to repairing damaged volunteer aprons, Dalani cares deeply about making Oregon Humane a place where everyone feels supported and welcome. As a Team Lead for her shift, Dalani helps train new YVs and is always willing to step in wherever help is needed.
If you’re in the shelter on a Saturday morning during her shift, you will often see her cleaning a mountain of dishes stacked taller than she is or softly reading a story to a dog while kennel buddying. Sharon Kristoff, the adult volunteer shift supervisor during Dalani’s shift says, “I’ve admired Dalani’s quiet confidence and determination. Whether it’s spending time with animals, making buttons, sewing, or other odds-and-ends projects, Dalani’s focus is on contributing anywhere it’s needing and getting the job done without fuss. No wonder she’s YV of the Year!” Dalani is an asset to the Youth Volunteer Program, and we are so lucky to have her.
Salem Youth Volunteer of the Year ~ Abby Delgado
We are proud to recognize Abby Delgado as the recipient of this year’s Salem Youth Volunteer of the Year Award!
Abby Delgado has made a lasting impression through her dedication and work ethic. Abby has now transitioned to an adult volunteer, but she made remarkable strides during her time as a youth volunteer and continues to do so. Since joining in October 2025, she has already contributed an impressive 118 hours serving as both a morning and afternoon Cat Cleaning Assistant. Abby’s commitment is evident not only in her consistency but in the enthusiasm and care she brings to every shift. Staff and fellow volunteers alike have recognized her outstanding efforts, sharing that “Abby consistently goes above and beyond in every task she undertakes” and praising her strong communication with others. Others have noted how she “jumps right in and gets things done without hesitation,” even showing up multiple days in a row to support the team. Abby’s initiative, reliability, and positive attitude truly set her apart, making her incredibly deserving of this recognition.
Youth Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award – Onyx Brisbois
We are excited to recognize Onyx Brisbois as this year’s Youth Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award recipient!
Onyx is, without a doubt, one of the most dedicated volunteers at Oregon Humane. In under two years, they have earned over 560 volunteer hours! Despite being a full-time high school student, Onyx always makes time for Oregon Humane. Onyx serves as a Team Lead for two YV shifts- in this role, they are a kind and inclusive mentor to new volunteers. Onyx has a wealth of knowledge about Oregon Humane, which is a result of them spending virtually every day here in the summer as a volunteer camp counselor!
As the ultimate ambassador of all-things Oregon Humane, they also lead tour groups and help at after school clubs. Katie Weinstein, Manager of Humane Education, said, “Onyx is phenomenal! They are so knowledgeable and passionate, and their work with Humane Ed programs will inspire future generations of animal advocates for years to come!” Not only does Onyx help onsite, they frequently volunteer at offsite events for both Salem and Portland! Onyx is such a reliable and positive presence in the Youth Volunteer program, and they have had such a remarkable impact on so many people and pets.
Portland Partner Pair Volunteer Award - Gary and Cora Moller
Congratulations to the Portland Partner Pair Award winners of the year, Gary and Cora Moller!
Gary and Cora have been part of the Oregon Humane Partner Pair program since the very beginning! In fact, they played a role in the creation of Partner Pairs at the Portland Campus in 2024. As a result of Gary’s advocacy and Cora’s passion for animals, we now have 50 Partner Pair volunteers working together to support OH animals. Since they started in 2024, Gary and Cora have been trained to volunteer with cats and dogs, and they have earned their way to yellow card approval for both. They also adopted their sweet dog, Missy, from here once they earned their 50 hours!
Cora builds strong connections with the animals she helps and is extremely invested in their wellbeing. She takes wonderful photographs to show off the animal’s personality and shares those pictures with her community. Not only is she a talented photographer, she’s created custom drawings of shelter animals as well! Many of these drawings have been taken home by adopters. While Cora helps bring out the best in animals awaiting adoption, Gary can often be found working tirelessly on the tasks that support animals while they’re here. From folding laundry, washing dishes, and earning a coveted spot in the spot cleaning “Poo Crew,” Gary helps keep Oregon Humane as clean and comfortable as possible. Gary and Cora are truly a dynamic duo, and we are so thankful for their hard work and dedication.
Salem Partner Award – Janet Savarro and Isabella Johnstone
Congratulations to the Salem Partner Award winners of the year, Janet Savarro and Isabella Johnstone!
While they no longer officially volunteer as a Partner Pair, they started out that way and are still often seen together in the shelter – clearly still a purr-fect team. Since 2023, they’ve been consistent and reliable Cat Cleaning Assistants, helping keep our cat spaces clean and comfortable, while using gentle handling and good instincts to help the cats come out of their shells and relax in their environments. With Isabella starting college, they aren’t able to volunteer together as often, but their commitment hasn’t pawsed. Whether they’re side by side or working independently, they continue to show up and give their time.
