Andrea came to us when she was looking for an animal organization to volunteer at after her career changed from working with animals to working at home behind a desk due to COVID. She stumbled upon FANS through an internet search. Andrea is part of our morning feed and clean crew, where she comes to the farm once a week and takes care of feeding the animals and cleaning up their feed areas and habitats. In addition, she is our newly appointed volunteer coordinator. Besides helping to set up volunteer opportunities, Andrea will be working on our volunteer retention and appreciation program. When not volunteering Andrea works a full time job and enjoys reading, traveling, trivia and hockey.
Here is what Andrea has to say about her experience with being a FANS volunteer:
What is the most rewarding part of being a FANS volunteer?
I think for a lot of people it’s getting to interact with the animals – which I absolutely enjoy. But, personally, I really enjoy getting to see the results of my work. Happy, full bellies of the hungry animals, and cleaned stalls, enclosures, and water bowls.
Which animal is your favorite on the farm?
I have a soft spot for Dakota, and Ophelia. Ophelia always follows me around the goat yard and she is such a sweet little girl.
What advice would you give someone thinking of becoming a volunteer?
There’s a lot of help needed at FANS. Whether it is at the sanctuary or remotely from home. If you decide to come out to the sanctuary, don’t let the drive get in the way of showing up. I love using my early morning drive to FANS to watch the sunrise, get ready for my week, and listen to some good music.
If you could ask for one thing to help the animals at FANS, what would it be?
Spread the word. The best way for us to help the animals is to talk about the sanctuary to your friends, family, and on social media so more people get involved, and we can help the animals currently at the sanctuary, and future animals.
Want to learn how you can help FANS visit our Volunteer page
