July Volunteer Finds Happiness in Helping Others

Talk about a cool teen! Hunter Arsenault is just that!

This young man—who happens to be SPCA of Texas’ July Volunteer of the Month—is a ‘Jack of all trades’ at an early age. When asked to help at major community impact events he smiles that magnanimous smile and says “YES!” Then, ask him to help do ANYTHING at that event and He. Will. Find. A. Way.

Hunter became an SPCA of Texas volunteer in March of 2023, just months after moving to North Texas from Maine. There, he was actively involved in volunteering for the Greater Androscoggin Humane Society, had lots of good friends, and was quite active in his Boy Scouts troop. It seemed natural that he would gravitate to the SPCA of Texas. (It helps, of course, that his Dad, Christian, serves as Maintenance Tech II with the SPCA of Texas.)

“I enjoyed volunteering at our shelter when I lived in Maine,” Hunter said. “After we moved, I was very happy that the SPCA of Texas welcomed me to join their team!”

Hunter, an outgoing young man who talks a mile a minute, just can’t say no. Whether he is unloading a panel truck, putting up a tent, handing out pet food—no matter what—he is doing it with a smile and a song on his lips. “Hunter is a junior volunteer who always goes above and beyond helping with community impact events. For the June event he woke up at 4 a.m. to help, the day before leaving for summer camp,” one of his nominators wrote.

One of Hunter’s favorite volunteer experiences so far, was at a recent ‘DFW Pets Are Family’ event in Fort Worth. “There were lots of people, volunteers and pets and during a quick break, I was able to fly my drone and take a few photos and videos. I got to see a unique view of all the teamwork and smiles from everyone involved,” he smiled.

“I recently worked the Fort Worth Pets Are Family event with Hunter. He is an inspiring young m an who jumps at the chance to help. From unloading the truck full of food and supplies to putting up and taking down tents, Hunter was willing to do anything it took to make sure the families in need received the pet food and supplies they needed to keep their beloved pets in their loving homes,” wrote one of his nominators.

Hunter wants people to know that volunteering at SPCA of Texas is fun. “There are lots of different things that you can do to help,” he said. “Helping with the food drives not only helps the shelter and pets, but it is also a great way to give back to the community. There is a place for everyone, no matter what your age, skills, or abilities!”

It’s important to note that children can begin volunteering at the SPCA of Texas at age 10 with their parents. Learn all about it here.

Although much of his volunteer time is spent helping people, Hunter also loves helping our pets. One of his favorite pups is Rookie. “Rookie is a great dog who loves playing with other dogs and loves being outside just like me,” Hunter smiled. “He is always happy and ready for fun.”

Hunter is proud of the work everyone does during the Sunday food pantries. “I think the biggest impact I have seen from my volunteer work is the smile on the faces of people who we get to help at each food pantry event. Knowing that we made a difference in their day makes me happy!”

The SPCA of Texas is proud of the work Hunter does at the food pantries as well! “Hunter was unstoppable. It was a hot June Sunday, and made sure everything was cleaned up as we went, and did everything with a great sense of humor. Hunter was always polite with our clients, volunteers and staff members,” wrote one of his nominators.

And his Dad, Christian, especially enjoys the Sunday drive-through food pantries when Hunter volunteers to help. “I cannot tell you how proud I am of this young man. And the fact that I get to work beside him a few days a month makes the weekend workdays so much better,” he beamed.