The Haven for Animals congratulates Kathie Ono, upon her selection as Volunteer of the Year. In celebration of National Volunteer Appreciation Week, The Haven thanks its many helpful volunteers, without whom the organization would not function. Professional pet photographer Kathie Ono, the owner of Ono Pet Photography, stands out as an extraordinary volunteer.
In selecting her, Michael Graham, Executive Director, said, “Kathie Ono is a valuable asset to The Haven and our community. She volunteers her time and talent to capture the best images of our adoptable pets, who are often overlooked and misunderstood. Her ability to take photographs shines a spotlight on the voiceless and has helped them find loving permanent homes. I think she inspires others to become active volunteers, to help end pet homelessness in our state”.
Shortly after relocating to Fairhope from Hawaii, Kathie stepped up to help The Haven following 2005’s Hurricane Katrina and has been with them ever since. She has served as Office Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, but her real love is pet photography. Kathie takes her role seriously, having attended many workshops and seminars throughout the country and in Canada. She is always looking for new techniques, ideas, and equipment, to get just the right pet pose. If you look at The Haven’s website, you’ll see her effective results, often with the cute props she provides.
Kathie has photographed more than 2,000 animals at the shelter, in addition to being the official photographer for special events, adoption fairs, and the Mystic Mutts parades. Last summer, she graciously volunteered her time and talent to do the “Curbside Pooch Pics” of 30 families and their beloved pets on their front porches.
She said that she feels that she is changing lives. “It is very rewarding when someone adopts an animal because of a photograph I have taken. I look for the right expression, to try to bring out a pet’s personality. Recently, I fell in love with a lovable kitten I was photographing and adopted her myself. I am thankful that The Haven is so helpful and supportive of my efforts.”
Two community businesses have awarded Kathie with something in honor of her selection: R. Bistro and Pastry and Page and Palette. The Haven appreciates the strong community support of its mission.
Of all the Haven volunteers, Michael says, “Volunteering is a wonderful way to help to make your community a better place. Because our mission is so big and important, volunteers help to make our life-saving work possible. I thank all our volunteers, during Volunteer Appreciation Week and am grateful for them every day.”
Since 2001, more than 10,300 pets have found their forever homes because of The Haven. The Haven is located at 559 Section St. in Fairhope. Adoptions are by appointment. The mailing address is P. O. Box 1063, Fairhope, AL 36533. For more information, please visit the website, www.havenforanimals.org, or call 251-929-3980.