Volunteers are the very backbone of what we do at Greyhound Rescue. Explore the stories of some of our volunteers and find out what it’s like being part of our volunteer family.
Name: Magdalena
Lives: NSW South Coast
Volunteer with Greyhound Rescue for: 3 years
Volunteering role: Marketing
How long have you been volunteering with Greyhound Rescue and what is your role?
I came to Australia in 2017 on a visa that initially didn’t allow me to work. I had lots of spare time, so I applied to become a volunteer with Greyhound Rescue. I started out coming to the kennels twice a week, then once I found work, just one a week. When we moved out of Sydney to the South Coast, I started my journey with social media and I now have the pleasure to run Greyhound Rescue’s Instagram account. I love getting beautiful photos and videos of dogs from our on-site volunteers.
What’s the best thing about being a Greyhound Rescue volunteer?
The best thing about volunteering with Greyhound Rescue is definitely seeing these beautiful creatures be rehomed. I have always loved dogs, but when I first started with Greyhound Rescue, I had never been to a kennel before. I was so surprised that these welcoming, sweet dogs just let me walk into their kennels without being afraid. They are so full of love.
I would never have gotten my dream job in Australia if I hadn’t started out with a volunteering position.
Magdalena, Greyhound Rescue volunteer
How has volunteering improved your life?
As a newcomer to Australia, volunteering gave me the opportunity to practice my English, gain confidence and open up to people.
No surprises that volunteering also improved my life by bringing two lovely greyhounds into my home. I have willingly joined the club of the crazy greyhound people. I have everything ‘greyhounds’. Clothes, accessories, Christmas ornaments – you name it!
Finally, Greyhound Rescue has an incredible community of volunteers, fosterers, adopters and supporters. I’ve made friends for life as a volunteer – everyone is so unique, caring and has a big, big beautiful heart. Wherever I go, I spot long, speedy noodles and their owners. It’s a great excuse to meet new people. With every chat, I meet someone interesting with a beautiful story. How wonderful is that!?
What would you say to someone thinking about applying to volunteer?
I highly recommend volunteering with Greyhound Rescue to everyone. It gives you time to relax, learn about these sweet creatures, help them gain trust in human beings once again, meet wonderful people and maybe even end up with a hound of your own!
Are you interested in joining our volunteer family? Click HERE to find out how you can help.