Cape Coral Animal Shelter honors volunteers as expansion plans grow

CAPE CORAL, Fla. (WINK) — At Cape Coral Animal Shelter, it takes more than staff to keep tails wagging and animals safe. It takes a community.

As Volunteer Appreciation Month is recognized across the country, the shelter is highlighting the people who show up every day to make a difference.

Volunteers help with everything from walking dogs and socializing cats to assisting with adoptions and events.

For many, that impact is personal. Volunteers like Stacy Stauffer said volunteering has changed her life.

“I used to have hunting dogs, so we couldn’t have cats. I decided I wanted to come here to help with the dogs and cats. After my husband saw how much I enjoyed it, he decided to tag along too. Something so simple helps so many animals,” Stauffer said.

The nonprofit, no-kill shelter has become a key resource in Southwest Florida, caring for animals until they find permanent homes. But as the area continues to grow, so does the need.

That demand is now driving a major expansion effort. Founding board member Gloria Tate said the shelter has come a long way in the six years it has been open.

“I remember when there were originally about 20 members. Now, we have over 300. There was such a need for a shelter at that time. Now, we’re ready to expand,” Tate said.

Plans are in place to grow the facility, creating more space for animals and improving areas for medical care and adoptions. Leaders said the goal is to help more animals while also making the experience better for families looking to adopt.

While many volunteers work directly with animals, others play a critical role behind the scenes.

There are opportunities focused on laundry, cleaning, and daily upkeep, all essential to keeping the shelter running. Volunteer Gail Anderson said that kind of work allows her to stay involved.

“I am one of the oldest volunteers here. I can’t go out there and walk the dogs. This is a way for me to still be able to help,” Anderson said.

Staff said volunteers are the backbone of the shelter, helping keep operations running smoothly while giving animals the care and attention they need.

As the shelter prepares to expand, that need will only continue to grow.

This Volunteer Appreciation Month, the message is clear: whether it is walking a dog, folding laundry, or simply showing up, every effort makes a difference and helps give animals a second chance.