11/18/2024
Humane Society’s Volunteer of the Month - November 2024: Hannelore Orkis
It’s with great admiration that we recognize Hannelore Orkis as our Volunteer of the Month for November 2024. Hannelore’s dedication to animal welfare spans over two decades and has made life changing impacts on the animals and people of our shelter. Originally from Ohio, Hannelore has lived across the Carolinas and Texas, before settling in Florida five years ago. With such a rich history of experiences, it's no wonder she brings so much heart to her volunteer work at the Humane Society of Sumter County.
Hannelore has always been surrounded by animals. Growing up with a love for all creatures, she now enjoys the companionship of Sammi, a delightful Rottweiler/Cocker Spaniel mix, who once was one of the dogs she worked with during her dog training classes. Sammi is a constant reminder of Hannelore's passion for animals, and together, they embody the love and care that Hannelore brings to every animal she touches.
For over 20 years, Hannelore has volunteered at animal shelters wherever she called home, before continuing her work here. Her motivation is simple but powerful: "Each animal at the shelter comes with a story all their own. As volunteers, we do our best to give the animal the best quality of life as they seek their forever home." Hannelore’s commitment to this mission has inspired countless others to volunteer alongside her and provide care and support for the animals in need.
One of Hannelore's most memorable experiences at the Humane Society of Sumter County was seeing the transformation of young volunteers. She recalls, "I used to have teenagers volunteer with me at the shelter to earn their requirements for graduation. While the parents were concerned their kids might want to adopt every animal, I explained that if they did, they wouldn’t be able to continue helping more animals. By the end of their volunteer hours, some of these teens chose to stay on as regular volunteers, and some even went on to pursue careers in veterinary medicine." Hannelore's mentorship not only helps animals but also shapes the future of the next generation of animal advocates.
With over 50 years of experience in animal training, Hannelore’s expertise spans a variety of species, from horses to marine animals to household pets. Her work with positive reinforcement techniques, which she applies to every animal she encounters, has been invaluable in training both staff and volunteers. As Hannelore teaches, it’s all about creating a connection: "It's like training both ends of the leash," she says, highlighting the mutual learning that happens between humans and animals.
Hannelore continues to give back with an unrelenting spirit, offering her wisdom and knowledge to better the lives of the animals at the shelter despite facing recent physical challenges, such as wrist issues. Her unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of displaced animals and the people who care for them is truly inspiring.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Hannelore as part of our volunteer family. Her kindness, experience, and love for animals set a standard that encourages all of us to do better and be better for the animals who need us most. Thank you, Hannelore, for your tireless commitment and for showing us all the power of compassion in action. If you have an interest in enriching your life by volunteering with us, please visit hsspca.org/ways-you-can-help/ and then submit your volunteer application for animal care, fundraising, administrative help and more. Congratulations again to Hannelore, our Volunteer of the Month this November!
