May 2026
Meet Sheryl
It started with some blankets.
During the 2020 lockdowns, Sheryl joined a group knitting and crocheting blankets for charities. One day, she noticed one of her peers making a kitty blanket. Sheryl thought that was brilliant–and adorable! Soon, she began crafting her own blankets for cats.
“It was so nice to see those cute bundles of joy snuggled up on the cozy fleece,” Sheryl says.
Sheryl’s involvement with the Rescue didn’t end there. Inspired by the work she saw (and the cats she saw benefitting), Sheryl decided to join SAFe’s volunteer team. Today, Sheryl plays an essential role in our Pet Pantry and Community Clinics.
Providing Community Support
Every week, Sheryl picks up donations from Mud Bay, then brings them to the Rescue to sort and stock the Pet Pantry with. Dog and cat food is separated by protein source, labeled, then set aside for scheduled pickups or placed on the shelves for distribution during drop-by hours.
“The Pet Pantry can be a crucial bridge for people during tough times,” remarks Sheryl. “Offering food and supplies is one way to decrease a bit of their daily stress.”
Sheryl measures cat kibble to go out with Pet Pantry orders.
Sheryl also helps at the front desk during SAFe’s bimonthly Community Clinics. She signs people in, confirms the services they’ll receive, and extends a listening ear to waiting clients.
“They come in nervous, and it’s so nice to be able to talk to them and meet their cats,” Sheryl says. “It really feels like a community.”
Cats, Culture, and Connection
Every week, Sheryl looks forward to returning to the Rescue and seeing a new batch of cats.
“I’m constantly amazed at how quickly cats are adopted,” Sheryl tells us. “Each Monday morning there are only a few kitties remaining. But watching the antics of those few makes me smile!”
Sheryl adds, “My senior cat would much rather sleep than play!”
When she’s not admiring cats at SAFe or at home, Sheryl enjoys attending arts and cultural events–especially when she can share them with others. As a volunteer at Edmonds Center for the Arts, Sheryl gets to introduce students to one-of-a-kind experiences.
“I enjoy seeing school kids during their first exposure to performance arts; being it music, dance, or cultural events,” Sheryl explains.
In her free time, Sheryl loves to expand her own horizons through classes at Creative Retirement Institute. And when adventure calls, Sheryl is there! Whether she’s filling her passport with exotic destinations or exploring local wine country, Sheryl can’t get enough of traveling.
But no matter where Sheryl’s journeys take her, we can always depend on her coming back to help SAFe’s Community Support Program!
“It gives you a big hug inside knowing you’re playing a small part in connecting people with a furry companion,” Sheryl says.
Sheryl with her furry companion!
Thank you, Sheryl, for the blankets, donation pickups and organization, and valuable front desk assistance during Community Clinics! We are truly fortunate to have someone so thoughtful and dedicated on our volunteer team.
