Libby enjoys a day at the lake — a nature lover and contributor to the Ohio Animal Foundation blog.
Libby has been volunteering with Ohio Animal Foundation since 2024. She serves on our Fundraising and Development Committee and is the lead in setting up our annual Beat the Winter Blues Auction for the Animals website. We are so grateful for all that she does for animals in Ohio!
1. Why did you decide to volunteer with Ohio Animal Foundation?
I was looking for to volunteer with a cause that I really cared about, and OAF was the perfect fit. I was really inspired as I learned more about the grant work, campaigns, and events to support Ohio’s pets, particularly the focus both on support for pets & wildlife. I also had experience in event/auction support, so it was also a great skills fit to support OAF.
2. Do you have any pets? (If so, tell us about them!)
I do! I have a cat (Ivy) and a dog (Walker). I say they are like roommates – tolerant and friendly with each other, but you won’t catch them cuddling up together. Occasionally they like to feature on my calls & meetings – Ivy by jumping into my lap, and Walker by barking very loudly.
Ivy the calico cat enjoys a sunny spot indoors — exactly where wildlife experts say our feline friends belong to keep baby wildlife safe.
3. Have there been any experiences with animals that have affected your life profoundly that you’d like to share?
Experiences with animals have always been a thread throughout my life. My mom is allergic to many pets/animals, but despite that, ensured that growing up I had opportunities to help at pet shelters, go horseback riding, and more. That love of animals has carried through to my adult life and is why I adopted my two pets and why I looked to volunteer with OAF.
4. What do you like best about volunteering with OAF and/or the auction?
I really enjoy working together to make an impact with the auction each year. There’s always lots of good ideas, and I like that it’s a comfortable & energizing space to bounce those ideas off each other. I also really enjoy meeting others who are helping with the auction/events, learning more about them, and hearing their perspectives and experiences.
Walker the dog gives his best puppy eyes — but during baby wildlife season, keeping dogs leashed outdoors helps protect vulnerable animals like baby bunnies and fawns.
5. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not volunteering with OAF?
I enjoy a variety of activities & hobbies – hiking, gardening, baking/cooking, art, and more. I just finished knitting a large shawl, and love trying new recipes. I’m growing zucchini this year, so a lot of my meals & baked goods are going to feature that. I’m also aiming to embrace more quiet moments – disconnecting from my phone and enjoying the present.