Above image: Volunteer of the Month is featured on the far left, along side RASKC colleague volunteers Diane and Allison

Meet Denise! During the eight years that RASKC had maintained a cat-care program at Bellevue Crossroads, 2008- 2016, Denise served as both lead and co-lead volunteer. She also has served as a foster volunteer, helps at Kirkland, and has worked at many special adoption events. Denise is also a key leader in helping to organize volunteer recognition events for eastside volunteers. She is one of the very nicest people you would ever meet. Read our Q&A with her below.

Q: How did you hear about RASKC?

A: From adopting at the Crossroads Shelter many years ago then became a volunteer in 2007.

Q: What made you want to volunteer, especially to work with animals?

A: To help find homes for shelter pets

Q: What do you do when you aren’t volunteering at RASKC?

A: I work for Bartells in Issaquah

Q: What do you hope to gain from your experience as a volunteer with RASKC?

A: Wow a lot. Besides helping animals find homes, it’s volunteering with great people.

Q: What is your life motto?

A: Be happy and enjoy all the little and big things in your life

Q: What is the best advice you would give people who want pets?

A: The best advice to people wanting to adopt a pet is they will love you no matter what and that you are giving them a home with love and care.

Q: Describe a memorable moment you’ve had with an animal?

A: There are so many memorable moments but there are 2 Petco cats that have a good story. One is Blizzard who was at the shelter for 6 months and we decided to take her to Petco Crossroads. She had no teeth and beautiful long white haired cat who was so sweet. She let us dress her up as a pumpkin and in Christmas outfits and was adopted by a young lady which would be her first cat. Then there was a kitten that was adopted by a great couple who actually cried when they saw him as it looked like a cat they just lost. They changed his name to Prince and even invited me to his first birthday party. Also I love the great staff and all the great volunteers we have. They all have a special place in my heart. I’ve watched young volunteers grow up and off to college. Volunteering at Bellevue Crosssroads Petco was the best experience of my life. Petco was so fun and all we did for RASKC made it the best time.