On March 6, 2024, students from Springwood School participated in a volunteer initiative at the Chattahoochee Humane Society (CHS), contributing to the daily operations of the shelter. This annual event sees a group of sophomores dedicating their time to assist with essential tasks, providing them with a unique perspective on the challenges faced in animal welfare.
The visit aims to educate students about the less visible aspects of animal care. During their time at CHS, students were introduced to the rigorous demands of keeping the animals healthy and adoptable. They engaged in various activities, including cleaning kennels, walking dogs, and replenishing food and water supplies. This hands-on experience allowed the students to understand the operational needs of the shelter.
Staff members at CHS worked closely with the students, demonstrating proper cleaning techniques and the importance of maintaining hygiene standards. The extra support from the volunteers significantly alleviated the workload of the small but dedicated staff, which consists of just six individuals. Despite the additional responsibility of guiding the students, the staff appreciated the assistance.
Phalisha Hadaway, director of the Chattahoochee Humane Society, expressed gratitude for the student volunteers, noting their contributions, even within the short time frame of a few hours. “I hope they walk away understanding that it is hard work. I think today gives them the rundown on how we function from day to day,” Hadaway stated.
While the students enjoyed interacting with the animals, they remained focused on their tasks, performing them with care and consideration. Hadaway emphasized that many people underestimate the challenges of working at a humane society, often assuming it is merely fun due to the presence of cute animals. “Everybody thinks that it’s fun and you get to play with pretty little puppies. We make it look easy, but it’s not,” she said.
The experience proved enlightening for students volunteering for the first time. After spending time cleaning kennels, one student remarked, “It’s very messy and takes a lot of patience.” Others were surprised by the extent of work required to maintain the shelter, realizing how much effort a small team invests to meet daily demands.
The involvement of teachers and parents further enriched the experience. Joey Burch, a teacher from Springwood, praised the initiative, highlighting the educational value of community service. “We’re just so proud that we can get our kids out in the community doing some service hours and get some educational experiences outside the classroom. It’s so valuable,” Burch noted.
The volunteer hours at the Chattahoochee Humane Society provided students not only with practical experience but also with an understanding of the community’s needs. Such programs foster awareness of the responsibilities involved in animal welfare, encouraging students to appreciate the hard work behind the scenes. As the students returned to their school, they carried with them memories of their contributions and insights into the vital role of organizations like CHS.
