This north Texas trio can often be found working together, like fundraising for North Texas partner, League of Animal Protectors Rescue, at their annual "Strikes for Strays" earlier this year. They’ve been volunteering for THLN for many years, and they each have their own story.

Together, they have helped us pull off many successful events in north Texas. Laurie, Doreen, and Jessica – we are so very thankful for your commitment to THLN and Texas’ animals! Here’s a little bit about each of these amazing volunteers.

Laurie Ford
Laurie started volunteering THLN in the fall of 2013 after learning more and more about horrific puppy
mills and has been an active volunteer ever since. “Spreading the word about THLN and their amazing commitment to helping animals is a rewarding part of being involved with such an awesome group of animal advocates in North Texas.”

Fun fact: Laurie adopted a puppy mill survivor 8 years ago—one of 400 that were rescued from a warehouse in Kaufman. 

Doreen Smithwick
Doreen came across THLN at an event about 7 years ago, signed up for our email action alerts, and offered to volunteer. She volunteers for tabling events and anything else that’s needed. “Since I was young, I’ve always had a passion for animals. … I’m passionate about politics, and this organization brings both of my passions together.”

Fun fact: “I rescue dogs -- but I’m really a cat person at heart.”

Jessica Iola
Jessica was new to Dallas when she began searching for a local organization to start volunteering with—she wanted to meet new people, work behind the scenes, and do something with animals. “I had just foster-failed and wound up adopting our 3rd dog, I thought fostering or working with a rescue group might not be the best fit for me.” After her first weekend of volunteering at an event, she said she decided she wanted to be a part of THLN and do as much as she could to help.

Fun fact: Jessica lived in Las Vegas for one year after college while her husband was a professional poker
player.

Want to join volunteers like Doreen, Jessica and Laurie? Contact your closest THLN Chapter today!