September Volunteer of the Month Has a Heart for Helping

When you meet Ashley Castillo, you immediately notice their calm, upbeat energy—the kind of presence that puts both people and pets at ease. Ashley’s journey with the SPCA of Texas began with a love for animals and a desire to make a tangible difference. “The animals and the environment and the people drew me to the SPCA of Texas,” they said. “I’ve always wanted to work here, so being able to even volunteer is enough for me!”

Ashley’s impact has been tremendous. They’ve completed every adoption training available and have become a trusted hand in helping both staff and potential adopters find the perfect match. Since completing the Data Entry training in mid-July, Ashley has already processed 25 adoptions — and assisted in counseling countless more!

Their dedication doesn’t stop there. Each morning, Ashley begins their day by helping clean the cat holdings before moving to the front of the shelter to help adopters meet their potential new companions. This blend of care, compassion, and hard work is what makes Ashley such an invaluable member of Team Purple.

Words from the Team

Staff members are quick to sing Ashley’s praises, and their comments speak volumes about the impact Ashley has made in such a short time:

“Ashley is a dedicated adoptions volunteer who goes above and beyond to help every adoption succeed. Their kindness, reliability, and genuine care make them an invaluable part of the team.”

“Ashley has been an AMAZING help up front in the adoptions area! They’ve done every training offered in adoptions, and they are always eager to help out in new ways when asked. Since doing our Data Entry training in mid-July, Ashley has processed 25 adoptions — and they help counsel on so many more!”

“Ashley often starts their day by helping clean the cat holdings, then spends the afternoon helping our shelter pets get adopted. Ashley has an eagerness to learn and is always happy to jump in and help wherever they’re needed. It’s a joy to have them on Team Purple!”

The staff’s words paint a clear picture — Ashley is not just a volunteer; they are a cornerstone of the adoption team, someone who embodies the spirit and heart of the SPCA of Texas’ mission.

The Joy of Volunteering

When asked what volunteering means to them, Ashley lights up:

“It makes me feel super full and amazing and energized. It makes every day worth going.”

For Ashley, volunteering isn’t just an activity — it’s a calling. They cherish every opportunity to make a difference, whether that’s walking a dog, cleaning kennels, or counseling adopters.

One of Ashley’s proudest moments came when they were able to become a volunteer adoptions counselor, a role that allowed them to directly connect families with their new best friends. “That was my favorite memory at the SPCA of Texas,” they shared.

They’ve also seen firsthand how small actions can change lives. “I was able to socialize some animals and heard that they got adopted because they did amazingly!” Ashley said. “I love that I was able to help them find homes!”

Meet Scooter — Ashley’s Featured Pup

Every Volunteer of the Month gets to feature one special animal, and Ashley chose Scooter, a lively pup with a heart of gold. “Scooter is such an amazing boy,” Ashley said warmly. “He genuinely deserves so much love. He gets excited to go out on walks and gives you a heads up — but he walks amazingly on the leash!”

Their affection for Scooter perfectly reflects the way Ashley approaches every animal: with patience, respect, and genuine joy in helping them shine for potential adopters.

A Message to Future Volunteers

Ashley wants others to know just how meaningful volunteering can be — both for the animals and for yourself. “We help animals and give them such amazing opportunities like housing and care and support while they go through hardships to find a home,” they said.

Their story is a reminder that you don’t need years of experience to make a difference — just heart, consistency, and a willingness to help.

Thank You, Ashley

The SPCA of Texas is beyond grateful for Ashley’s compassion, positivity, and incredible commitment. In only a few months, they’ve made an impact that will last far beyond the hours they’ve logged. Their energy lifts up both the animals and the humans around them — and their story reminds us all of the power of kindness in action.

Congratulations, Ashley Castillo, our September Volunteer of the Month! The SPCA of Texas is proud to celebrate you — and Scooter, your featured pup — for everything you’ve done to help animals find their way home.