This National Volunteer Week, we’re honouring the people whose compassion, commitment, and tireless efforts create a powerful force for change: our volunteers. In line with this year’s theme, Volunteers Make Waves, we at Toronto Humane Society are proud to celebrate the ripples of impact our volunteers make in the lives of animals—and the communities who care for them. 

Just like the water that moves steadily and shapes everything in its path, the contributions of volunteers—whether through walking dogs, socializing cats, fostering pets, supporting veterinary teams, or offering administrative help—create momentum in the animal welfare movement. Each volunteer action, big or small, sends out ripples that change lives. 

Animal welfare is rooted in empathy, patience, and action. And it’s volunteers who amplify those values every day. When a dog who was once fearful of people learns to trust again because of a foster’s love—that’s a wave. When a kitten is bottle-fed by a volunteer through the night and grows strong enough for adoption—that’s a wave. When a family comes in for a wellness appointment and is met with warmth from a volunteer—that’s a wave. 

Together, these moments form a tide of transformation. 

Volunteering in animal welfare isn’t just about what happens inside our walls. Our volunteers reach out into the community by supporting programs such as our Community Day events and wellness pop-up clinics. They bring people and animals closer together and build a society that values compassion and care for all living beings. 

During National Volunteer Week 2025, we recognize each and every person who has given their time, energy, and heart to support our mission. You are the waves that lift us, and we are endlessly grateful. 

To our volunteers: thank you for making waves with us.