Emily Lange
Some of CAR’s best are referred from other volunteers. Emily Lange began volunteering about three years ago when her boyfriend, Nathaniel, introduced her to us. The two visit Tuesday evenings, one Sunday per month, and come to the “rescue” when other volunteers cannot make their shift. Nathaniel is on cleaning detail, tidying up cats’ temporary homes. Meanwhile, Emily feeds and plays with them, gives pats, and offers up her lap. She prefers volunteering with a partner so the cats have more time out and about and having their needs met.
Emily always thought she was a dog person until cats won her over during college when she adopted Diamond, a calico, from a local humane society. Recently, the two had a breakthrough when Diamond allowed Emily to pick her up. “It was a proud moment!”
Emily and Diamond (7), agreeing to be held.
This past February, Emily and Nathaniel adopted Hula Hoop aka Huey from CAR. The one-year-old black kitty, they learned, is still very much a kitten…and a burglar. They Huey-proofed the kitchen so he can no longer steal things like bags of bread and Cheetos! This once reserved boy at the shelter is rambunctious in his forever home with fellow cats, Diamond and Pete.
Emily came to realize how different cats can be depending on their environment. Diamond wasn’t a Huey fan at first, but the two paw-tnered up when Emily and Nathaniel moved into their new home and leveled the playing field. Huey is a bit much for Pete, though, who prefers his space..
Huey is still learning how best to enjoy a Churu…
At home Emily enjoys movies, reading, and, when time allows, crafts. She also enjoys walks, biking, and visiting Morton Arboretum, one of her favorite places. Professionally, Emily is Research Coordinator in public health with a current focus on school safety.
Volunteering with CAR feels natural to Emily and has become part of her life. “It means a lot to us to hang out with really cool cats each week,” she says, adding how she enjoys the shelter’s space within PetSmart. Emily, thank you for putting your heart into CAR! You have a special place in the cats’ hearts and ours, too!
written by Stacey Field Cherwin, SPHR, SHRM-CP
