Senior pursues passion for animals
It’s the warm smile on their little faces and unconditional love that keeps George Ranch High School senior Lauren Chubon volunteering at the Sugar Land Animal Shelter for the past two years.
What began as a volunteer service project for school has evolved into a passion for Chubon who finds inspiration, joy and even a few adopted pets from her experience.
Selfless acts such as Chubon’s garnered her a nod as finalist in the Animal Welfare category for the Greater Houston Service Awards, which takes time each year to honor those to have made a difference in their community. Other nominees were Connie Richards of Faithful Paws and Milton Gray of Houston SPCA.
No job is too big or small for Houston area volunteers when it comes to commitment and dedication.
“The spirit of volunteerism and the willingness of Houstonians to give back make this city so great,” said Bill Flores, president of the University of Houston Downtown and chair of the Greater Houston Service Awards.
This year’s GHSA, which is celebrating 31 years and is organized by Volunteer Houston, announced 43 finalists in 15 categories. Winners were announced at the May 15 luncheon at the Bayou City Event Center .
Patty Chubon, Lauren’s mother, nominated her for her continuous service assisting the shelter as a kennel tech. Not only does she feed, clean and
provide medications, but also looks after the variety of animals ranging from not only cats and dogs, but also turtles, hamsters, guinea pigs, parrots and snakes.
In addition to her work at the shelter, 18-yearold Chubon started her own club called Save Our Strays at George Ranch. With a membership of more than 70 people, they were able to raise more than $1,800 the first semester with all the money raised going to local animal shelters. She also makes sure that the club focuses on the educating of others about the importance of volunteering and the need to adopt pets.
“I believe Lauren offers a new look into the adoption process and is always trying to educate others on giving homeless pets another chance at life,” said Patty Chubon. “She’s also encourages many others to volunteer in their community.”
Helping others in need is part of Chubon’s personality, and no task is too daunting.
According to Patty Chubon, her daughter helped a woman who had found three homeless puppies aiding in their recovery with feedings, vet visits and finding homes. She also is known for reaching out to the community with collection drives for toys, blankets and cleaning supplies resulting in donations given to six different rescues and shelters in the area.
Chubon, who was recognized by the city of Sugar Land for the Save Our Stray’s donation to their animal shelter, also has made close to 100 pet blankets for shelters out of fleece, old blankets and comforters.
Helping animals looks to be part of Chubon’s future plans. Though she will only be able to work at the shelter until early July before leaving for Texas A&M University to pursue a degree in either business or veterinary science, animals are at the forefront of her mind.
“I look forward to going to the shelter,” she said. “Not only do I get to love the animals that have been neglected, abandoned, abused and at the bottom of the barrel, but they’re so happy to play a 5-minute game of fetch. I just want to see them get a good home and have a second chance at life. The shelter really needs volunteers.”
For more information on volunteer opportunities in Houston, go to www.volunteerhouston. org.