By April M., Branding/Marketing Communications Analyst and Blog Contributor
True fulfillment is finding a way to give back to the world, whether it’s through volunteering at your local animal shelter, soup kitchen or religious organization. I’m fortunate to work for a company that does so much for the community and introduced me to a world of giving back.
At Scottrade, each associate is given a paid day off to volunteer (part of what makes it so great work here). And last summer, I found my calling. I’m a huge dog lover, so I chose to volunteer at Stray Rescue of St. Louis.
As I walked through the doors of Stray Rescue with my Scottrade buddy Courtney M., we were greeted with excited barking. After a brief orientation we partnered to walk some of the dogs – it was clear that attention was the most imminent need of these sweet-faced animals.
Our first furry pair were crate mates, Janet Reno and Lindy. Janet could only go on a short walk because of health issues, so I stayed back with her as Lindy and Courtney proceeded on for their longer walk. Sitting on a curb across the street from Stray Rescue with Janet, I discovered a caring soul just wanting to be loved. Janet crawled onto my lap and lovingly licked my hand as I petted her. A short while later, Courtney and Lindy appeared. Courtney and I were showering the two with attention when a staff member from the shelter approached us to let us know that Lindy was about to take a trip to her forever home. It was a beautiful, fulfilling moment to watch Lindy drive away to her new family.
I got to personally interact with several more dogs that day, and each of them had special and unique qualities that made me question how any human being could neglect or abuse these beautiful and loving animals. It was on that day I decided I would dedicate myself as a volunteer at Stray Rescue of Saint Louis, and I’m thankful Scottrade gave me the opportunity to spend time volunteering with my other passion.
If you are interested in helping Stray Rescue of Saint Louis through donations, volunteering, fostering or adopting, visit http://strayrescue.org/.