The Volunteer of the Month for March is Denise Broughton!
Denise Broughton, our Volunteer of the Month for March 2026, is a longtime and deeply dedicated volunteer with the Humane Society of Sumter County. She began volunteering with our cats nearly four years ago. When our previous PetSmart location in The Villages closed, Denise simply followed her heart—and the cats—continuing her volunteer work at PetSmart on Wedgewood Lane, where she still lovingly cares for kittens and cats today.
Denise grew up in Manchester, New Hampshire, where her love for animals began early. Her mother once took in a stray black-and-white cat named Poncho, who quickly became Denise’s constant companion. Poncho patiently wore doll clothes, rode in a baby doll carriage, and never jumped out during neighborhood strolls—clearly destined to be a beloved family cat. That early bond set the tone for a lifetime of loving animals.
As an adult, Denise always shared her life with pets. She spent time living in North Conway, New Hampshire, where she owned and operated a bed-and-breakfast. Years later, after moving to The Villages, Denise fostered two tuxedo kittens over Thanksgiving “just temporarily”—but as foster fails often go, they never left. She later adopted Wall-E from PetSmart three years ago, and this past Thanksgiving, she welcomed another tuxedo named Poncho, lovingly named after her childhood cat. After losing her beloved Goldendoodles, adopting Wally helped her heart heal.
Denise says she was inspired to volunteer with the Humane Society of Sumter County after losing a cherished cat. She wasn’t quite ready to adopt again—but she still needed animals in her life. Volunteering gave her exactly that connection. When asked what advice she gives to others considering volunteering, Denise says simply: “Follow your heart.” If you have time, if you’re lonely, or if you just love animals—the animals need you, so why not volunteer?
When asked about her most memorable moments as a volunteer, Denise doesn’t hesitate. Meeting the cats she ended up adopting stands out most. She laughs, admitting she wasn’t planning to bring another cat home—but it was love at first sight.
Denise still works part-time and also volunteers with the Patriots Club in The Villages. With a smile, she says, “That’s all the time I have—so I can’t volunteer anywhere else!”
We are proud to recognize Denise Broughton as our Volunteer of the Month for March 2026 and are incredibly grateful for her compassion, dedication, and the generous gift of her time. Her love and care make a real difference for the kittens and cats waiting at PetSmart—and for all of us who are lucky enough to volunteer alongside her.
If you would enjoy joining our team of valuable volunteers, please complete a volunteer application. We will contact you shortly after your submission. There are many ways to make a positive impact and achieve fulfillment in your heart, too.
