Volunteer Recognition
Annual Volunteer Appreciation Celebration
2025 Volunteer of the Year: Kevin Fontaine
It is our distinct honor to announce Kevin Fontaine as the 2026 Volunteer of the Year.
Kevin has been a dedicated and compassionate volunteer since 2023. Rain or shine, he can be found walking our dogs — especially those who need a little extra patience, confidence, and care. Whether shy, fearful, or overlooked, Kevin consistently steps forward to make a difference.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions and strong dog-handling skills, Kevin was invited by staff in fall 2025 to join our Mod Squad Team.
Kevin also participates in our Doggie Day Out Program, giving shelter dogs valuable time outside the shelter environment, and generously helps train and mentor new dog area and dog-walking volunteers.
His quiet nature and humble spirit only deepen the impact of his service. Kevin never seeks recognition, yet continually goes above and beyond for the animals in our care.
Please join us in congratulating Kevin Fontaine as our 2026 Volunteer of the Year.
2025 Junior Volunteer of the Year: Ava Wiggins
The 2026 Junior Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Ava Wiggins.
Ava’s journey with the Potter League began as a camper in our Humane Education program. From there, she became a PetPal Volunteer and has continued to grow into an exceptional young leader within our volunteer community.
Most recently, Ava stepped up as a Summer Camp Counselor and consistently went above and beyond in every way. Whether staying late to help, cleaning up without being asked, lending a hand wherever needed, or making campers feel welcomed and supported, Ava approached every task with kindness, maturity, and heart.
Her willingness to help, strong work ethic, and genuine compassion for both animals and people set her apart. Ava was also recognized as our August 2025 Volunteer of the Month.
We could not be more proud to watch the extraordinary and caring person she is becoming, and we are honored to recognize Ava Wiggins as the 2026 Junior Volunteer of the Year.
2025 Lore Owens Award: Jean Duval
Lori Owens was a dedicated Potter League volunteer that was full of compassion, grace, and selflessness. Her unassuming, quiet, and gentle virtue made her an “unsung hero” to those who knew her. In honor of her memory, this award is given in recognition of what she exemplified in her life and what she shared with us as a volunteer.
The Lore Owens Award honors volunteers whose compassion, humility, and selfless dedication reflect the spirit of an unsung hero.
The 2026 recipient is Jean Duval.
Jean has volunteered with the Potter League every Sunday since 2017. For nine years, he has faithfully spent his mornings walking dogs — especially the big dogs, though he has certainly helped a few small ones too.
As a Teal Dog Volunteer, Jean has long been known for his calm presence, kind heart, and unwavering commitment to the animals.
Jean embodies everything this award represents: quiet strength, humility, and a genuine desire to help without seeking attention or praise. Week after week, year after year, he has shown up for the animals who need him most.
His story reminds us that true heroes are often the ones working quietly behind the scenes, making the world better through simple acts of compassion.
We are proud to recognize Jean Duval as the 2026 Lore Owens Award recipient.