Meet Jacque! RASKC is very honored to name Jacque Rump as Volunteer of the Month. In 2018 she contributed more foster hours than any other RASKC volunteer. Only one other volunteer contributed more foster hours than Jacque last year– Jacque contributed 3,769 hours then. Altogether, she has contributed more than 10,400 foster hours so far! We deeply appreciate Jacque’s skill, experience, and dedication. And she’s delightful to work with too. Thank you, Jacque!

Q: How did you hear about RASKC and get started?

A: I was a volunteer with Feral Care Sanctuary in Bothell from 2007 to 2016 mainly doing trap-neuter-release (TNR) work. I also fostered kittens for Feral Care, especially the ones who had medical, or socialization needs and looked to do this on a more regular basis. When I moved in 2012 and wasn’t able to do as much TNR, someone suggested that I volunteer with RASKC.

Q: What have you gained so far from your experience as a RASKC volunteer?

A: I’m not sure I have the best emotional fortitude to foster. At times I’ve bawled when I needed to leave kittens or cats at the shelter. But with all that– the thought of kittens and cats not having a chance to experience a home environment outweighs the emotional trauma. And the continual reward of fosters finding their forever homes!

Q: Tell us about yourself.

A: My parents were both Air Force veterans, so my first six years were on military bases. Then my dad retired, and we moved to Maine where my mom was from. I grew up in a small coastal town which was idyllic. Most memories are tied to seasonal changes: forsythia bursting with golden glows in early spring; then come the heavenly scented lilacs followed by fields of lupines and Oriental poppies. And you can’t beat autumn in New England – colors that take one’s breath away. Then, of course, the snow and pussy willows!

I moved to Charlotte, North Carolina when I was 20 years old. I enjoyed exploring the Southeast for 19 years, but I never felt like it was “home.” After my father passed away, I moved back to Maine for a few years before deciding I was going to make a career change and move to the Seattle area. In 2005, I made the 3,000+ mile trek with a huge dog and four cats. On my second day, when I was walking my dog in a Des Moines park, I got an outstanding view of Mount Rainier, had friendly chats with other walkers, and then knew I’d found home. I am fortunate to have found a job doing computer support that I enjoy and work for a great company.

Q: Where else have you volunteered?

A: Over the decades, I’ve volunteered with adult literacy programs, Big Sister, Teen Club, Meals on Wheels, Emergency Housing,…– anytime there was a need where I could add value. It never failed that each time I was rewarded much more than those I was supposed to be helping. As a single adult, it is easy to be self-centered and have a myopic view of the world. Volunteering helps to keep me grounded and realize how blessed I am. I’m grateful since moving to this area that I have been able to work with animals by volunteering with Feral Care, FCAT, and RASKC.

Q: Describe a memorable moment you’ve had with an animal or anyone else associated with RASKC.

A: There are so many. I occasionally think of many of my past fosters, but the strongest bond both my dog Luna and I had was with a two-week-old kitten that I fostered in October 2017. She had such a huge personality, and l loved seeing the bond between my dog and this wee kitten.

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

A: I’m obsessed with gardening and don’t have a free spot in my backyard! Though each spring I find a way to squeeze in more plants. Since I was eight years old, I have loved reading mysteries. It all started with Trixie Belden. In 2009, I found a wonderful mystery book club in Seattle where we meet each month to talk about the books.

Q: How would you describe your pets’ personalities?

A: I have several cats– each with their own distinct personalities, but all expect treats on demand. My Luna is a sweet rescue dog I got when she was two years old. She is wonderful with my cats and all foster cats and kittens, as well as with my two adorable bunnies!

Q: What would you like to say about volunteering for RASKC?

A: Fostering cats and kittens, especially the hissy ones, is so rewarding. The day when a hissy kitten falls asleep in your lap is such a turning point and warms my heart.

Q: Fun fact?

A: My father was a salesman in New England back when maps were used. We were tickled when he found a Rump Mountain at the border of Maine, New Hampshire, and Quebec. At the time there were no roads leading to the area, but my dad said he wanted his ashes sprinkled there. In 2002, I was able to honor his wish. By then there were “roads” to the mountain visible on maps, though they were privately owned by logging companies. They allowed me to borrow the keys to the various gates to Rump Mountain, so my entire family formed a mini convoy for this adventure!