SaskEnergy Co-op and Summer Students spend a day helping furry friends

Tail wags, head scratches and a warm welcome from a few four-legged friends. That special greeting was waiting for a group of SaskEnergy Co-op and Summer Students who took part in a volunteer opportunity at the Regina Humane Society in July.

The seven Co-op and Summer Students spent the day doing hands-on work to help the community organization and the animals it cares for.

"The experience reflects SaskEnergy's commitment to encouraging employees to give back to their community — including its four-legged members," says Kya Ladouceur, a Co-op Student in Community Engagement who helped organize the outing.

After touring the Humane Society's new facility and meeting some of the cats and dogs waiting to be adopted, the students went to work. Some turned donated socks into toys for cats. Others built a storage cart and helped clean up outdoor animal areas.

The activities allowed the students to learn about the care and effort required to support the animals.

"I loved meeting the animals and helping create a good environment for them," says Co-op Student Ava Geisbauer. "It was a great experience to give back to the community and see that volunteering is a priority at SaskEnergy."

In addition to extra hands to help at the facility, the students also donated supplies to the Humane Society. Using SaskEnergy's Community Action Grant program, they provided items like cat litter, animal beds, leashes and treats.

“These animals didn't ask for the life they have," says Summer Student Jordyn Urschel. "Being able to do something to make it a little better was worthwhile."

For many of the students, the experience offered a chance to step away from a day in the office and connect with their community.

"Organizations like the Humane Society need help and volunteers can make a meaningful impact," says Laura Cookson, a Co-op Student. "It's great to see a Crown corporation caring about the community."

Through its Champion of Volunteers program, SaskEnergy supports initiatives and organizations that strengthen the communities we serve. This opportunity allowed the students to see the difference that a few hours of volunteering can have in the community.

“Volunteering is an important way of giving back to society and making it healthier for everyone,” says Summer Student Yash Jadav.

"Being able to step outside our day-to-day life and contribute in a wholesome and meaningful way felt great," adds Co-op Student Muhammad Ali.