Volunteer Spotlight: Erin
Erin joined Heartland in March of 2023 as an invaluable admin volunteer. She works so hard to make life easier for the admin staff — from data entry and other office work to event prep, cleaning, watering plants, organizing and running errands. Whatever it takes to help keep the admin team focused on their work. She is such a caring, dedicated person with a strong work ethic, and Heartland is so grateful to have her on the team!
Why Heartland? I was looking for ‘my people.’ I wanted to be with animals and people who truly love all animals.
What do you love the most about volunteering at HFS? I love the atmosphere. I may not get to see the animal residents up close very often, but I can see them from the window and know I can visit them anytime I want. I just need to be around people who care about each other and animals.
Favorite sanctuary resident? Esther was the first to greet me when I visited the barn for the first time and I really enjoyed spending time with her. Hank’s smile gets me every time! Murphy and Truffle are adorable.
What do you enjoy doing with your time outside of Heartland? I have been spending my summer visiting the many prairies and woods we have in Dane County and recently went on a guided tour of a prairie to learn more about our native land. I like to walk, read, go thrifting and engage in DIY projects for my home. And, I’m currently volunteering to help save our country’s democracy.
Anything else you would like us to know? I was executive director of non-profit agencies for many years so in my retirement I’m enjoying helping out without the pressures. I’m married to a great guy who also loves animals. We have two gorgeous, smart and funny daughters in their twenties, and two cats (Harry and Sally).