March Volunteers of the Month Personify Dedication and Compassion

We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the incredible team of volunteers at the Lakewood PetSmart as our March Volunteers of the Month! Adriana Godines and her daughter Andrea Hernandez (began volunteering in September 2022), Brandon Bolt (began volunteering in August 2019), Deborah Tompkins (began volunteering in November 2027), and Kit Lively (began volunteering in January 2024) are dedicated to helping cats at the store socialize and find loving homes. Their commitment, teamwork and passion for helping cats find loving families truly set them apart.

The volunteers at the Lakewood PetSmart dedicate their time to caring for cats in the SPCA of Texas’ adoption program. Adriana Godines, a devoted volunteer, emphasizes how adopting from the SPCA of Texas provides confidence that each pet has been thoroughly checked by a veterinarian and shelter staff. Brandon Bolt echoes this sentiment, encouraging more people to adopt adult cats. “An adult cat can get adjusted to a new living situation just fine!” he says, hoping to dispel common misconceptions about older feline adoptions.

For these volunteers, the work they do is deeply fulfilling. Adriana finds the most joy in helping cats prepare for their new homes and being part of the adoption process. “The times I get to actually complete adoptions are the most rewarding,” she shares. Brandon also cherishes the simple yet profound experience of caring for the cats. “I find it mentally stabilizing,” he says, reflecting on how volunteering brings a sense of peace and fulfillment.

SPCA of Texas Lakewood PetSmart volunteers are dedicated to helping shelter cats find loving homes! Pictured above are: (L-R) Deborah Thompkins; Brandon Bolt; and Kit Lively. This remarkable team has helped almost 90 cats find loving families over the past year.

Each of these volunteers was drawn to the SPCA of Texas for different reasons, but a shared love for animals and a belief in the organization’s mission unites them. Adriana appreciates the organization’s reputation for ensuring pets receive the best care possible, not only while in the shelter, but also after adoption. Brandon’s motivation stems from a desire to make a difference in a world that sometimes feels indifferent to helping others. “I wanted to give back during a time when our communities really need people who care about our future,” he shares.

Volunteering with the SPCA of Texas is not just rewarding—it’s also accessible and enjoyable. Adriana wants people to know that the organization provides strong support for volunteers, making their work as smooth as possible. “It’s fun!” she exclaims. Brandon keeps it simple: “It’s pretty easy!”

The impact of this dedicated group is evident in the lives of both the cats they care for and the families who adopt them. Adriana describes the special moments when adopters bond with their chosen cat, noting how both human and feline seem to recognize their good fortune in finding each other. While Brandon humbly admits it’s hard to gauge the overall impact, he acknowledges that seeing cats get adopted is always a highlight of his day.

Each volunteer has their own cherished memories from their time with the SPCA of Texas. For Adriana, completing adoptions is particularly rewarding, especially when it involves a cat she has nurtured over several weeks. “We really care that they are going to loving homes,” she says. Brandon, on the other hand, fondly remembers certain cats he has bonded with, recalling their unique personalities and the joy they brought him.

The Lakewood PetSmart team isn’t just a group of individuals—they’re a community. Their teamwork and dedication go above and beyond the call of duty. Nominations from fellow volunteers and SPCA of Texas staff members highlight their incredible work ethic and selflessness. Notably, the team ensures that there is always someone available to care for the cats on Sundays, despite the absence of a designated Sunday volunteer. They also take on extra responsibilities, such as cleaning litter boxes and ensuring supplies are well-stocked.

One nominator emphasizes their dependability. “These volunteers have been picking up Sunday cat care for I don’t know how long!,” they wrote. “Most of them volunteer multiple days and then, without hesitation, pick Sundays up! They also cover for each other when one goes out. The Lakewood PetSmart volunteers are dependable and communicate wonderfully. They are a joy to work with—each and every one of them!”

The dedication of Adriana, Andrea, Brandon, Deborah and Kit has not gone unnoticed. Their efforts directly contribute to creating a comfortable, loving environment for the cats in their care and ensure smooth adoptions. As one nominator beautifully states, “Their dedication to this program is inspiring and a true testament to their commitment to these animals.”

To Adriana, Andrea, Brandon, Deborah and Kit—thank you for your dedication, your compassion and your teamwork. You are changing lives, one cat at a time, and the SPCA of Texas is beyond grateful to have you as part of our volunteer family.