Conveniently located just off Lake Oconee Parkway is the Oconee Regional Humane Society (ORHS). It is run by a group of dedicated volunteers who strive to improve the lives of animals in the Lake Oconee community by finding loving and permanent homes for cats and dogs within their care.

A volunteer-based organization, ORHS does not take the act of kindness lightly. Volunteering is a form of charity that is always welcomed and never turned down.

“With financial donations, the good feeling may be short lived, but volunteering can give you that purposeful feeling for as long as you like,” said Jerry Prescott, ORHS board member.

ORHS does not take its volunteers for granted. Instead, their hard work and dedication for the animals is appreciated and celebrated. On June 30 the organization sponsored a Volunteer Appreciation Day. Approximately 50 volunteers gathered at Parks Ferry State Park to celebrate their successes by enjoying fun-filled activities such as swimming, boating and grilling.

“The Oconee Regional Humane Society is volunteer-based, so we are always looking for help in all aspects of our organization,” said Prescott.

Volunteerism can come in several forms.

“Whether you’re good at writing articles, taking pictures, or publishing newsletters, we can always use your help,” said Prescott.

Prescott also suggests coming to the shelter to play with the cats and dogs, work the front desk, or volunteer to clean the cat room and do general cleaning of the center. Every effort made to volunteer goes a long way in the lives of the animals.

Adoption and fostering are other forms of volunteerism that are greatly appreciated by the ORHS as well.

“We are always looking for families who will take in a dog or cat while it is being prepared for adoption,” Prescott said. “The animal that you house will be spayed or neutered and will have received all of its shots.”

ORHS covers all costs associated with fostering. The animal will stay in its foster home until it is adopted, which usually takes place within a two-week period. Adoption Days take place each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“This is a very rewarding experience as you get to give a formerly unwanted animal a new home,” said Prescott.

Adult dogs have been heartworm tested and started on heartworm preventative. Cats have been tested for feline immunodeficiency virus as well as feline leukemia.

For adoption fees visit orhspets.com.

Those interested in becoming part of a dedicated volunteer based organization just stop by or give ORHS a call. Oconee Regional Humane Society is located at 1020 Park Avenue, Suite 101, Greensboro. The phone number is 706-454-1508. Those who prefer can make a donation online by logging onto the website orhspets.com and clicking the donation button.