JANUARY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: HEATHER HARRIGAN

Heather Harrigan, based in Charlotte, NC, has made a remarkable impact on Happily Furever After Rescue (HFAR) despite the distance. As a lead volunteer at Anson County Animal Shelter (ACAS) in North Carolina, Heather began her volunteering journey in 2023 and soon connected with HFAR, fostering a collaboration that continues to make a difference. One of the highlights of this connection is Marco, the first dog HFAR rescued from ACAS—a special pup who still holds a cherished place in Heather’s heart as he awaits his furever home nearly two years later (he’s Jaclyn, the founder’s, current foster).

 

At HFAR, Heather plays a vital role in processing volunteer applications and coordinating foster placements for ACAS dogs. Her favorite aspect of volunteering is witnessing the transformation of shelter animals as they gain confidence and trust in foster homes, ultimately thriving in their furever ones. The joy of seeing these dogs experience love and security for the first time is a continuous source of inspiration for her.

 

One of Heather’s most cherished memories is seeing the first photos of ACAS animals in their foster homes, especially since many of the ones we’ve helped have been at their rural shelter for a year or more. Sadly, this shelter receives very low traffic and visitors due to its location. These snapshots often capture their first moments inside a home, marking the beginning of a new and hopeful chapter in their lives.

 

For those considering volunteering or fostering, Heather encourages them to take the leap, saying, "There's a unique joy that comes from seeing an animal thrive due to your care and attention. The sense of fulfillment from knowing you've made a positive impact in their lives is truly heartwarming."

 

Outside of volunteering, Heather is an elementary school teacher who enjoys spending time with her fiancé, Drew, and their fur family, which consists of five dogs and three cats. She also loves true crime—whether it's reading or watching—and continues to dedicate her time to helping animals in need through her work with ACAS and HFAR.

 

Heather’s dedication and compassion are an inspiration to everyone at HFAR and beyond, proving that even from afar, one person can make a tremendous difference in the lives of rescue animals.

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FEBRUARY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: LINDA & ERIC STONES

At Happily Furever After Rescue, we are honored to highlight the dedication and compassion of our incredible volunteers. This month, we celebrate Linda Stones and her husband, Eric, for their heartfelt commitment to fostering and their unwavering support of our mission.

 

Linda had wanted to foster for a long time, and after discovering HFAR through local events in town, she decided to take the leap in the summer of 2023. Just a month later, she and Eric welcomed their first foster dog, Bethany—a silly, fun-loving pittie-mix puppy—into their home. Bethany stayed with them for three months, bringing joy and laughter to their lives.

 

After taking a year-long break, Linda and Eric opened their home once again, this time to a sweet beagle named Susie. In a twist of fate, Susie found her furever home with Linda’s sister, making her adoption a bittersweet but heartwarming experience. Now, the couple is fostering their third dog, a gentle foxhound named Scarlett, and they continue to find joy in helping each dog grow and flourish.

 

When asked what she loves most about volunteering with HFAR, Linda shared that she appreciates the support and care provided by the organization. “I feel supported and listened to, and I like that Jaclyn ensures every adoption is 100% right.” For Linda, fostering is more than just providing a temporary home—it’s about helping dogs gain confidence and watching them blossom in their own unique ways.

 

One of her most cherished memories was watching Scarlett run freely in their yard for the first time after installing an electric fence. Seeing her foster dog bound out of the house with pure joy reinforced just how rewarding fostering can be.

 

To those considering fostering, Linda offers this advice: “It’s rewarding, it enriches your life, and it can bring you lots of happiness. It’s wonderful knowing that you are helping save a dog and playing a crucial role in finding them the perfect home. Plus, when you foster one dog, you’re actually saving two—because it opens up a spot for another dog in need.”

 

Beyond fostering, Linda is an artist with a passion for oil painting, particularly pet portraits. She has painted many dogs and is considering starting a pet portrait business. She and Eric also share a love for hiking, daily walks with their dog, Chester, and their foster dog, and exploring local nature preserves. In addition, they both enjoy singing and are active members of the Fairfield County Chorale and their church choir. Linda also loves to bake and cook, making their home a warm and welcoming place for both people and pets alike.

 

We are beyond grateful for Linda and Eric’s dedication to HFAR and their commitment to giving dogs a second chance. Their kindness, patience, and love make all the difference, and we can’t wait to see the continued impact they will have on the lives of our rescue dogs.

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MARCH VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: VIRGINIA DARE

Virginia Dare has been a dedicated, full-time dog trainer since 1991, driven by her lifelong passion for dogs and deep understanding of canine behavior. Over the years, she has continuously expanded her expertise through extensive education, hands-on experience, and volunteer work at various shelters—where the dogs themselves became some of her greatest teachers.

 

She began volunteering with Happily Furever After Rescue a few years ago, offering remote training assistance to foster families via Zoom. Virginia was eager to help when she realized how effective virtual guidance could be in reaching adopters and fosters beyond her immediate area. She enjoys supporting HFAR’s volunteers by providing practical training tips that help dogs transition smoothly into their foster homes.

 

When discussing volunteering and fostering Virginia says, “Be realistic about the time and energy you can dedicate, and choose a dog that aligns with your lifestyle. If you live in a small apartment, a large, high-energy dog that requires a fenced yard for exercise may not be the best fit. If you have other pets, ensure your foster dog will be comfortable and compatible with them. Love the idea of daily walks but aren’t physically strong? Avoid fostering a powerful dog with a history of pulling on leash. Prefer a quiet, relaxed home environment? An older, well-mannered dog might be the perfect match. The good news is that Jaclyn at Happily Furever After Rescue works hard to find you the right fit for you.

 

Virginia’s biggest piece of training advice? Start early, be consistent, and focus on positive reinforcement training only. Patience is essential, but setting clear expectations from day one and reinforcing positive behaviors can prevent small issues from becoming big problems down the road. Outside of training, Virginia enjoys gardening, photography, and exploring the art of hand-building with clay.

 

If you’re interested in dog training services, visit www.northstarcanines.com or email is virginiadare2013@gmail.com.

 

 

APRIL VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: BRIAN SHARP

Brian Sharp first became involved with Happily Furever After Rescue (HFAR) in 2021, although he had been fostering dogs long before then. His partner at the time was deeply involved in the foster community, and Brian decided to step in and lend a hand once most of his own dogs had passed on. Since then, he has dedicated his time and heart to fostering and providing hospice care for over 10 dogs, offering them comfort and love during their transition to furever homes.

 

What Brian loves most about fostering is being able to bridge the gap between the shelter and adoption. "I just enjoy simply having dogs in an otherwise dog-less house," he shares. This connection with the animals, as well as the opportunity to witness their growth and happiness, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his volunteer work.

 

Through HFAR, Brian has created lasting memories, not only bonding with many animals alongside his teenage daughter, but also with families with whom he still stays in touch. One of his favorite moments is seeing his foster dogs thrive in their new homes, knowing they’re living their best lives. He has been able to witness firsthand the amazing homes both his two HFAR foster dogs, Jax and Rocco, went to and that has made it all worth it.  

 

Outside of his volunteer work, Brian is an avid gardener, a music lover, and a small business owner. He encourages anyone with the time and heart to get involved with volunteering, especially in the world of rescue. “Dogs are not boring!” he adds with a smile.

 

Thank you, Brian, for all your dedication, love, and care for the animals of HFAR! Your compassion makes a real difference in their lives.

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MAY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: JULIA KING

Julia King has been an incredible asset to Happily Furever After Rescue, starting her journey with us a few years ago by offering guidance to fosters and leading group dog training classes. Today, she volunteers as an Adoption Counselor, working behind the scenes to help match our animals with their perfect families—a role she truly loves.

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Julia’s passion for helping animals began in 2008 when she started her career as a dog trainer. Living in the South, she witnessed firsthand the resilience and unbreakable spirit of shelter dogs, even after experiencing hardship. Inspired by their strength and happiness, she committed herself to using only positive reinforcement training, focusing on helping dogs thrive in safe, loving homes. Over the years, Julia has earned multiple certifications, further expanding her knowledge and expertise. However, she says some of her greatest teachers have been her own rescue dogs and the many dogs she’s fostered and volunteered with over the years.

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When asked for her advice to new adopters, Julia shares, "Be patient and stay positive. It doesn’t matter where your dog came from—they need positive guidance, and sometimes it takes time to achieve your goals. You can’t expect a dog to be perfect the moment they walk into your home. Give them time to adjust."

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In addition to her volunteer work, Julia continues to help dogs and their families through her training business, All 4 PAWSitive LLC. If you’re interested in training support or strengthening the bond with your dog, you can reach out to her at all4pawsitive@gmail.com or visit all4pawsitive.weebly.com.

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Julia’s advice for anyone considering volunteering with Happily Furever After Rescue: “Do it! There are so many meaningful ways to get involved.”

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Thank you, Julia, for your dedication, compassion, and the incredible difference you make for the animals and families in our rescue community!

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JUNE VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: SYLVIA VO

We are thrilled to recognize Sylvia Vo as our Volunteer of the Month! Sylvia has been a true gift to our foster community—especially for the shy, overlooked cats who need a little extra patience and care.

 

Sylvia’s journey with animal rescue began back in 2017 when she volunteered with DAWS. After a long pause due to renovations and the heartbreaking loss of her two beloved senior cats, Sylvia was looking for a way to reconnect with her passion for helping animals. That’s when fate (and a Facebook post) brought her to HFAR. We had a group of shy kittens in need of a special foster, and Sylvia immediately stepped up.

 

“I’ve fostered shy cats before and understand how difficult it can be to find people who are comfortable with them,” she said. “I wanted to help out.” And help she did! Since November, Sylvia has fostered five cats for HFAR and an estimated 35 cats and kittens total, including one puppy. Her quiet, understanding approach has helped some of our more timid cats blossom into confident, adoptable companions.

 

One of Sylvia’s favorite memories was when two especially shy foster kittens, Annie & Hallie, were adopted. “At first, when their adopter came over, they were hiding,” she recalled. “But within thirty minutes, they were out and playing with her—it was such a rewarding moment to witness.” The best part, just this month, their adopter came back to adopt their just as shy brother, Nick Parker, of the Parent Trap litter!

 

Sylvia has also found joy in watching her resident cats bond with the fosters. “It’s been fun seeing our cats play with the foster kittens and teach them how to ‘be a cat’ in a home,” she said. “Every day, we listen to them doing zoomies around the house.”

 

Beyond fostering, Sylvia is passionate about encouraging others to give it a try. “We always need more fosters—especially during kitten season in spring when rescues are overwhelmed,” she explained. “Some animals don’t do well in a shelter environment and need a quieter place to relax. Don’t be afraid to foster! The rescue supports you every step of the way, and it’s so rewarding to see your fosters thrive in a new home.”

 

When Sylvia isn’t busy caring for kittens, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their five cats (yes, five). She’s an avid baker, foodie, volleyball player, and runner. In fact, this year she’s checking off a bucket list item—running a race at Disney World!

 

Sylvia, thank you for your compassion, commitment, and for opening your heart and home to so many deserving animals. We're so lucky to have you as part of the HFAR family!

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JULY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: KATHY SCHACHT

For Kathy Schacht, it all started with a Facebook post. In January 2023, she came across a plea from Happily Furever After Rescue asking for fosters—and was immediately drawn to the sweet face of a dog in need.

 

“I couldn’t resist the adorable pup in the photos,” Kathy remembers. “Before I knew it, I was filling out a foster application and giving our vet and references a heads-up to expect a call.”

 

That one moment kicked off a journey that hasn’t slowed down. Shortly after being approved, Kathy found herself heading to Danbury Airport to pick up her very first foster—Miley, a Plott Hound from North Carolina.

 

Although her work now requires frequent travel, Kathy has found other meaningful ways to stay connected within the organization. She currently manages HFAR’s microchip database, playing a vital behind-the-scenes role in helping ensure every animal has a safe path home if they ever get lost. “It’s been an incredibly meaningful way to support the mission, even while I’m on the road,” she says.  

 

When asked what she loves most about volunteering, Kathy doesn’t hesitate: “I didn’t realize what I was missing until I got involved with HFAR. Even small efforts can make a life-saving difference. Helping connect animals in need with people who can provide love and safety is such a gift—for everyone involved. When it’s the right match, it’s truly a blessing on both sides.”

 

HFAR hasn’t just changed the lives of animals—it’s changed Kathy’s perspective, too. One particular moment stands out.

 

“We once took in a kitty, Benny, who had been returned after an adoption didn’t work out. I remember feeling unfairly judgmental—I assumed the adopters had done something wrong. But when they brought him back, they were clearly heartbroken. The second he stepped into our house, he relaxed completely—tail up, purring, totally at ease. That’s when I realized: the adopters hadn’t failed him. They gave him love, comfort, and a quiet home. It just turned out that Benny preferred the chaos of our household—dogs, cats, people coming and going—so we ended up becoming his furever family. That moment completely shifted how I think. It reminded me not to jump to conclusions and that, just like people, pets have unique personalities and preferences.”

 

Some of Kathy’s favorite memories come from her time as a fill-in foster. Whether it's bringing a dog to an adoption event or caring for an animal during the short gap between arrival and foster placement, she treasures the opportunity to spend time with them and share their stories with her network. “There are so many ways to volunteer with HFAR, and each one gives you the chance to make a real impact,” she says.

 

To anyone considering volunteering or fostering, Kathy offers simple but powerful advice: “Don’t be shy—reach out and ask how you can help! You don’t have to be perfect or have all the answers—just a willingness to show up and support. Fostering or volunteering doesn’t just change the life of an animal; it changes your life too. You’ll laugh, you might cry, and you’ll definitely fall in love more than once. There’s a role for everyone, and every bit of effort truly makes a difference.”

 

Outside of rescue work, Kathy lives a vibrant life full of animals and activity. Her family raises ducks and geese, and over the past 12+ years, they’ve welcomed many birds in need into their backyard flock. She’s also discovered a love for pickleball, which she says is not only a great way to stay active but also a fun way to meet new people—just like volunteering with HFAR.

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AUGUST VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: CRYSTAL SHNITSER

If there’s one thing Crystal Shnitser loves, it’s cats—and thanks to fostering, she gets to love on even more of them than she could keep herself (though if she could be a full-on “crazy cat lady” with a house full of kittens, she absolutely would).

 

Crystal joined Happily Furever After Rescue just two months ago, but she’s no stranger to fostering. This year alone, she’s fostered for two other rescues as well, caring for a total of five cats (two of which she “foster failed” and adopted herself) and three puppies. For Crystal, the best part is getting to play and cuddle with kittens, watching them grow and seeing their personalities blossom—especially the shy ones who eventually learn to curl up on her lap while she works.

 

Letting go is always bittersweet. “It has been very hard for me to see them get adopted, even though I know it’s a good thing. I get attached easily,” she admits. Still, she wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. With her own cats now a year old and past their tiny kitten stage, fostering gives her the chance to relive those playful, chaotic, and heartwarming early months.

 

Fostering is a family affair in the Shnitser household. Crystal’s two children, ages 5 and 8, share her love for animals—though she jokes, “Most days I like the cats better than them!” When she’s not busy with kittens, Crystal enjoys hanging out with friends, traveling, and cooking or baking.

 

Her love for animals runs deep, and there’s a funny story to prove it. While pregnant with her daughter, Crystal spotted a stray cat outside her home one morning at 5am. She started leaving food out, and within days the mama cat brought her kittens over. They’d venture inside but dash out if she tried to pick them up. Soon, a grizzled old male cat—dubbed “Grandpa”—showed up and began sleeping on the porch, so Crystal set up a cozy box for him. Before long, her feeding station had attracted not just cats but also a baby skunk and a possum. “Let’s just say my husband said no more feeding any animals after that,” she laughs.

 

Crystal’s dedication and compassion make her an incredible foster and a cherished member of the HFAR family. She recommends fostering to everyone: “It’s rewarding to know you are helping animals.” We couldn’t agree more—and we’re so grateful to have her on our team!

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SEPTEMBER VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: COLLEEN OAKES & FAMILY

This month, we are thrilled to recognize Colleen Oakes and her family as our Volunteer of the Month! Their journey into fostering began with a shared dream of helping dogs in need. Having an adopted child has deeply shaped their perspective on second chances, opening their hearts to the idea of changing one life at a time. While adoption and fostering are very different experiences, the Oakes family finds that both bring the same sense of hope and joy: creating a brighter future and offering love when it’s needed most. As they put it, “We can’t fix the world right now, but we can help this one dog have a beautiful life.”

 

Since joining HFAR, the Oakes family has fostered three dogs, including their current foster, Shadow. They’ve found that one of the best parts of volunteering is the incredible support they’ve received. As they shared, “The communication and support is amazing—it makes it easy to foster and lets you know you aren’t alone if you have struggles or need support. Jaclyn is a compassionate leader and has made it easy to step in, and to have flexibility for when the time is right to foster.”

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Fostering has had a lasting impact on their lives, bringing them closer together as a family and giving them a shared purpose. They often talk about their foster dogs and cherish the role they play in helping each pup on their journey to a forever home. One of their favorite memories is watching their very first foster, Walter, find the most loving home. Seeing updates and photos of him thriving with his new family continues to warm their hearts and serve as a reminder of why they foster.

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For the Oakes family, fostering is not just about helping dogs—it’s about creating memories and living out their values together. They encourage other families, especially those with teens, to give fostering a try. While it can be an adjustment, they believe the unmatched feeling of saving a dog’s life makes every effort worthwhile.

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Outside of volunteering, the Oakes family enjoys exploring New England after moving from Colorado two years ago. They love kayaking, reading, exploring pop culture, visiting New York City, and spending time together watching movies.

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We are so grateful to the Oakes family for opening their hearts and home to our rescue dogs. Their story is a beautiful reminder that fostering doesn’t just change the lives of animals—it transforms the lives of families, too.

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OCTOBER VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: CASSANDRA RHUBACK​

This month, we’re thrilled to recognize Cassandra Rhuback as our Volunteer of the Month! Her compassion, dedication, and tireless work for cats and kittens in need have made her an invaluable part of the Happily Furever After Rescue family.



Cassandra began fostering kitties during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many shelters were forced to close their doors. What started as a way to help during a difficult time quickly became a calling. Over the past five years, she has fostered an incredible 99 cats—and she currently has 14 in her care, including three litters she recently rescued locally.

 

For Cassandra, fostering is more than just volunteering—it’s a way of life. She finds deep fulfillment in helping the “underdogs” of the rescue world: the strays, ferals, and fearful cats who need extra patience and understanding. “I love cats, and fostering makes me feel whole,” she shared. “Nothing is more rewarding than socializing a cat and seeing them come out of their shell.”

 

Outside of rescue, Cassandra works as a nurse—a career that reflects her nurturing nature and commitment to caring for others. Though she jokes that she has “no hobbies” because the cats are her life, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

Cassandra also wants to remind others that rescue work is for everyone. “Volunteering is an opportunity that everyone should partake in. Rescue is in crisis—help make a difference and I can promise you, you won't regret it,” she said.

 

We’re so grateful for Cassandra’s compassion and devotion to giving cats the chance to find their happily furever after.

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NOVEMBER VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: BENJAMIN MERCHANT​

We’re thrilled to recognize Benjamin Merchant as our Volunteer of the Month! Benjamin joined the Happily Furever After Rescue family in January and has been a dedicated presence ever since. While he’s not able to foster at the moment, he shows up in major ways — attending most of our events throughout the year and always lending a helping hand wherever it’s needed. Keeping a strong connection with our local community is essential to our mission, and we are so grateful for volunteers like Benjamin who make these events possible!

 

Growing up surrounded by dogs, cats, and even horses, Benjamin has always had a soft spot for animals. Volunteering gives him the chance to support the rescue while spending time with the furry friends he loves so much. One of his favorite memories since being a part of the rescue was seeing senior cat, Eleanor, find her furever home. When he learned her foster was interested in adopting her, he graciously offered to cover her adoption fee, which he spent by buying supplies for our kitties!

 

When he’s not busy making a difference in rescue, Benjamin works as a nurse — a true testament to his compassionate heart and passion for helping others. He’s also a huge fan of Pokémon and all things nerdy. Thank you, Benjamin, for your commitment and kindness – we’re lucky to have you on our team!