06/04/2026
🐾💜 VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: Tanya 💜🐾
Sometimes all it takes is one decision to change the course of your life.
When Tanya moved from New Jersey to Alabama in 2019, she quickly noticed something that broke her heart. There were so many stray, abandoned, and neglected dogs in need of help. She had always wanted to volunteer with a rescue organization, but had never found the opportunity.
Then in August 2021, she saw a community post looking for volunteers.
She reached out.
And she never looked back. 💜
“From the moment I started volunteering, I knew it was something I was meant to do.”
Over the past four years, Tanya has experienced both the heartbreak and the joy that come with rescue. She has witnessed dogs arrive scared, neglected, and unsure of who they can trust. She has also had the privilege of watching those same dogs learn to feel safe again, discover what love looks like, and leave for the forever homes they deserve. 🏡🐶
One thing Tanya has learned is that dogs are incredibly resilient.
“These dogs don’t have a voice. All they want is love, safety, and a chance to be part of a family. No matter what they’ve been through, when you look into their eyes, you can see their resilience and their ability to love unconditionally.”
Her passion for the dogs, her dedication to the rescue, and her willingness to always step up wherever needed have made her an invaluable part of Summit’s Sanctuary. In 2025, Tanya took on an even larger role when she became our Assistant Director, helping lead the mission she has spent years supporting. ✨
But perhaps the most powerful part of Tanya’s story is this:
“While these dogs need advocates and people to care for them, the truth is that I need them just as much as they need me.”
Anyone involved in rescue understands exactly what she means. Somewhere between the vet visits, the kennel cleaning, the adoptions, the tears, and the victories, these dogs find a way to leave paw prints on our hearts too. 🐾💜
Tanya, thank you for your leadership, your compassion, and the countless lives you’ve helped change. Summit’s Sanctuary is stronger because of you, and we are so grateful to have you as part of our family.
