June Volunteer of the Month
Please join us in celebrating Holly Stine, The Humane Society of Sumter County’s Volunteer of the Month for June. Long overdue and so very well deserved, Holly’s kindness, generosity, and love for animals shine through in everything she does.
Originally from Nazareth, Pennsylvania, Holly grew up surrounded by animals, including dogs, gerbils, turtles, and even two ducks. Her love for animals started early and never faded. Holly jokes that her husband, whom she met in high school, has accused her of liking dogs more than people.
Now living in Annville near Hershey, Pennsylvania, Holly has spent the last ten years snowbirding and giving back to animals in need. Before coming to the Humane Society of Sumter County, She volunteered as a pet transporter and worked “Find Toby” in PA, a group dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their families.
In November, Holly adopted Cocoa, from the Humane Society, a lovable lab-pitt bull mix who adores cuddles, kisses, people, and other dogs. After losing their beloved dogs, Petey, and Abby, Holly and her husband spent four years without a dog of their own. Holly began volunteering at the shelter because she missed being around dogs and quickly found comfort and joy in helping the shelter animals.
“Volunteering at the shelter is a great opportunity to be around cats and dogs without the 24/7 responsibility,” Holly shared. “The animals are very loved by both the staff and volunteers. It’s truly a happy place. It’s a place of hope.”
As a volunteer, Holly wears many hats. She is a dedicated dog walker, self proclaimed “laundry wench,” former pack-walk volunteer, and one of the compassionate people who simply sits with shelter dogs to make them feel
loved and safe. Whether she’s helping with laundry, or spending quiet time in the kennels, Holly brings comfort and kindness everywhere she goes.
One of Holly’s most memorable experiences was fostering Belle, a hound dog who reminded her so much of her beloved Abby. Though Holy and her Husband weren’t quite ready to adopt at the time, Belle held a special place in their hearts and brought them tremendous joy.
Holly’s compassionate spirit and willingness to help wherever needed make her an invaluable part of the Humane Society of Sumter County family. Thank you, Holly, for all you do for the animals and for the people who love them.
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.
