Stephanie McKeegan

Meet Stephanie! She’s a dedicated PAWS Chicago volunteer who spends her time at the Lincoln Park Adoption Center and Medical Center. During her volunteer shifts, she helps PAWS’ youngest, shyest kitties come out of their shells. Not only does she help healthy cats and kittens, she also works with cats in our isolation rooms who are healing from illnesses. When Stephanie’s not working hands-on with our cat population, she steps into the role of Adoption Counselor, helping cats and kittens find their perfect families We appreciate all the time Stephanie spends helping the cats here at PAWS Chicago! 

1. How long have you been a volunteer at PAWS Chicago and what made you decide to volunteer? 

I have been volunteering at PAWS for almost two years now. I decided to volunteer because I had recently graduated college and wanted to meet more people in Chicago who also love cats as much as I do.  

2. Which PAWS program(s) do you volunteer with? What’s your favorite way you help PAWS and why? 

I volunteer at the Lincoln Park Adoption Center and the Medical Center in Little Village, alternating where I am every week to spread the wealth of my cuddles with the cats. My favorite way to volunteer is to help shy or scared cats feel loved in the shelter environment. I recently became a Level 2 cat volunteer, so now I get to help even more shy or scared cats feel more comfortable and in control of their life. 

3. What’s special about the PAWS No Kill mission to you/what inspires you to have a heart for animal welfare? 

The PAWS No Kill mission helps give cats and dogs that normally would have been put down due to the convenience a future. A cat like Frederick [a severely injured cat who required months in care] would have never been given the chance without PAWS, and now he is a much happier and healthier cat overall.  

4. What’s your favorite story about your time at PAWS and why?

I would have to say I have so many stories about my time at PAWS. I love every second of volunteering at both locations because of the people and the cats, of course. I have really loved meeting the volunteers and staff members that help make the animals happy and healthy - this includes Katie, Grace, Celene, Eugene, Carlos, Sarah and Bobbie.  

5. What are three things you would tell someone who’s interested in becoming a PAWS volunteer? 

I would tell someone, what is not to love? You get to help cats or dogs or cats and dogs, if you want to help both. They love unconditionally as long as you show love and admiration. The volunteers and staff are also great to get to know and are always willing to talk animals with you! Also, it will help distract you from the real world - and who doesn't need a distraction right now?