Volunteer Chad Lauritzen and new best buddy Charlie await your arrival at Santa Fe Animal Shelter. Charlie looks like a LOTTA dog, but he has a lotta love to give. Photo by Bernadette Lauritzen

SFAS News:

Santa Fe Animal Shelter (SFAS) is powered by compassion, and nowhere is that more evident than in the work of volunteers. As Giving Tuesday gets prepared to take place across the nation. SFAS wanted to make communities aware of just how much their volunteers give to them and their furry friends, while trying to create new families.

“Every day, they give their time, their hearts, and their steady presence to animals who need safety, comfort, and connection,” said Lex Gowans, Marketing and Communications Manager. “Their kindness transforms lives. Their commitment strengthens our community. And the truth is simple: this lifesaving work is impossible without them.”

The SFAS team is deeply grateful for the people who show up for the most vulnerable animals, day after day, with patience, love, and hope.

Their work ranges from enrichment and nose work sessions that help nervous dogs build confidence, to more than eight years of volunteer-led photography capturing each pet’s unique spirit. Volunteers are the quiet heroes behind so many second chances.

“This Giving Tuesday, the volunteers at Santa Fe Animal Shelter are giving back in an extraordinary way,” Gowans said. “Together, they have created a $18,000 Volunteer Matching Fund, doubling every donation made Dec. 2. Their generosity sends a powerful message: the people closest to our animals believe deeply in this mission, and they’re inviting the community to join them.”

Giving Tuesday is one of the most important days of the year for their shelter. Every dollar raised goes directly toward their $900,000 year-end goal, providing medical care, nourishment, enrichment, and lifesaving programs like New Hope and foster support. “When the community joins hands with the volunteers who give so much, the impact is profound. A gift on Giving Tuesday goes twice as far. and changes twice as many lives,” she said. Learn more about SFAS volunteer opportunities or donations, visit www.sfhumanesociety.org.

Abner would love your big yard and can keep an eye on the homestead too. Photo by Bernadette Lauritzen

Berry says suns out tongues out with lots of kisses in store. Photo by Bernadette Lauritzen