#24: Friends of HAWS
The Friends of HAWS volunteer group is dedicated to supporting our mission through community involvement and fundraising activities. They act as ambassadors, promoting HAWS’ goal of responsible pet ownership and the prevention of animal abuse and neglect.
HAWS was run entirely by volunteers when first established in 1965. Members of the community came together to answer phones, pick up animals, clean kennels and carry out HAWS’ animal care and control efforts. Even when the first full-time employee was hired in 1976, we still needed volunteers! To this day, HAWS’ existence would not be possible without their dedication.
A special group of volunteers, the Friends of HAWS is committed to helping wherever and whenever needed, and to contributing toward the financial well-being of the shelter.
The Friends host various fundraising events throughout the year, including raffles, bake sales, the Holiday Bazaar, Media Sale, Clothing/Textile Drive and more. They sell HAWS-branded merch so we can all show off our HAWS pride!
Proceeds from these efforts benefit the paws and claws at HAWS, as well as supporting education, outreach, and other programs HAWS provides throughout the community. Often they pay registration for staff to attend continuing skills training so we can better ourselves for the sake of the animals. More tangibly they have been able to provide equipment in the kennel and SNIP clinic, generous donations to our building expansions and even the LED sign in front of our building.
HAWS is truly grateful for our Best Friends!
