A season of gratitude: Honoring our volunteers and foster families

As we move into the holiday season, the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center (MVAS) reflects on the invaluable role our volunteers and foster families play in fulfilling our mission. Our volunteers are the heart of our center, and their generosity makes an extraordinary impact every day. Currently, we are fortunate to have approximately 170 active volunteers who dedicate their time and talents 365 days a year. Their work extends beyond caring for animals, encompassing a wide range of roles that are vital to the success of our operations.

Animal Services Ambassadors warmly greet visitors, help answer questions and guide them through the center. Customer Service volunteers assist our front desk team by fielding inquiries in person and over the phone. Additionally, many volunteers dedicate their efforts to supporting educational programs, organizing outreach events, and providing specialized care for rabbits, cats, and dogs.

Equally vital to our mission is our foster program, an amazing lifesaving initiative. Foster families open their hearts and homes to animals on a temporary basis, providing the care and love they need until they are ready for adoption. While the majority of foster animals are nursing cats and kittens, our fosters have also cared for rabbits, puppies, pregnant dogs, and post-surgical pets needing time to heal. This compassionate effort gives animals a safe space to grow, recover, and thrive, and it plays a crucial role in preparing them for their forever homes.

In addition to our core volunteer roles, our HOWL (Helping Out Wildlife Locally) group plays a crucial part in responding to wildlife sightings in neighborhoods. HOWL volunteers educate citizens about local wildlife and safely transport injured animals to rehabilitation centers. Their dedication is invaluable to MVAS, as it allows our Animal Control Officers to continue their essential work in the field, addressing wildlife and companion animal needs.

Our volunteers' and fosters' dedication creates a nurturing environment where animals can heal, thrive, and prepare for their future. From walking and feeding to cleaning, socializing, fostering, and assisting at community events, their contributions are considerable. These acts of kindness not only improve the animals’ daily lives but also enhance their overall health and well-being, increasing their chances of adoption. The challenges faced by homeless and abandoned animals are significant, but thanks to the compassion and hard work of our volunteers and foster families, these animals will have the opportunity for brighter futures. Their efforts bring hope, joy, and positive change to our community.

During this holiday season and every day, we express our heartfelt gratitude for everything they do to make a difference.