Volunteer >> Volunteer Spotlight

Gina Hoag

by Cheryl Lawless

“Only if we understand can we care. Only if we care will we help. Only if we help shall they be saved.”  Jane Goodall, an advocate of her beloved chimpanzees, succinctly expressed a passage. A journey that one takes in becoming aware that we share this universe and that there is a responsibility we all bear in the well-being of the earth and its inhabitants.

Our Companions’ volunteer, Gina Hoag, has made her journey and understands accountability.  Possessing an abundant amount of commitment, Gina has cared about the well-being of the many dogs which have touched her life.

“Nothing happens by chance, but for a reason,” says Gina.  For her it was Christmastime, 2008.  She had read an article about a homeless dog impounded at the Monroe shelter.  There was something about this dog which spurred Gina into action. Frantically, she called every animal rescue group which she could identify. Much to her dismay, none of the groups returned her call with one exception….. Sue King from Our Companions.

The shelter refused to let Sue do a behavior assessment of the dog, which is a critical step in identifying a possible home.  It was Sue King’s caring ways and commitment to the well being of animals that convinced Gina that Our Companions was the organization with which she would volunteer. In no time she was immersed in the programs.

Her goal, after orientation, was to teach at Our Companions Canine College. To this day she continues to instruct the 1st level classes on Sundays.  It was Our Companions positive reinforcement methods, which has proven to be so successful and humane, that appealed to Gina.

From there she spread her wings to Special Events.  Fundraising is critical and the goals, which Our Companions want to meet, require the support of many people and groups.  This was mainly a weekend commitment, but Helpline was her next involvement.  It kept her close to the action during the weekdays.  She shared her canine expertise with many people.

Although Gina’s involvement expanded, her energy and commitment keeps her active in all these areas. Her loving and generous heart compels her to continue helping those animals and owners who need a hand, a path to follow.

For her, the quality of talent and level of commitment of those at Our Companions is praiseworthy.  To be part of their goals and selfless generosity is a gift, but for Our Companions, Gina Hoag is the gift.

Previous Volunteer Spotlights

October 2010 - Helene Kapelewski
August 2010 - Lisa Ireland
May 2010 - Regina Radzicki
April 2010 - Veteran Volunteers
February 2010- Mandy Wieting
December 2009 - Pat McGuiness
October 2009 - Risa Davidson
August 2009 - Deb Soricelli
June 2009 - Henry Petrofsky
March 2009 - Jacquie Ro
Dec 2008 - Gretchen Labau
Sept 2008 Todd Johnston
July 2008 Lyn Garson
May 2008 Daryl Carbone
March 2008 Sue King
Jan 2008 Jon Phillips