Volunteer Spotlight

Jean DeCesaris

Jean joined RBARI as a volunteer about 4 ½ years ago starting out working with dogs and being part of the Homeward Bound program as well as the Humane Education program. In addition, two of her favorite events are the BEST FRIENDS ADOPTION DAY EVENT and the BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS events. She is a professional dog trainer and her most loved work is helping owners train their dogs who have behavioral challenges so that they can truly enjoy their time spent with their dog(s). 



"Having always enjoyed working with children and of course my love for dogs led me to volunteer to go to middle schools and high schools and discuss humane ed, dog fighting, responsibility, etc. It led to interesting debates and discussions with the students and was the inspiration to begin a program at one of the alternative schools for students with education and/or behavioral challenges."  

That began almost 2 ½ years ago and has evolved into the PAWS IN HAND program, incorporating two dog trainers, 22 volunteers and the constant support of the executive director, the staff trainer, Karyn Montuori as well as the entire RBARI staff.

"It is a joint effort of many people and a lot of hard work and dedication to get the program off the ground and expanding. PAWS IN HAND currently goes to two schools a week transporting shelter dogs and the combined effort of trainer and volunteers work to teach the students how to train dogs in obedience, tricks and agility as well as discuss the responsibilities of owning and respecting our dogs. It is a tremendous program and brings much joy to the students as well as the volunteers.   I can’t thank RBARI enough for entrusting me with their animals and giving me the opportunity to bring a program such as this to the shelter and the community."

Having dogs around the house all her life and being the designated “family trainer” for each dog added, it was a natural progression for Jean to work with dogs and combine that love of dogs working with children.

"It has been an honor to work with the many volunteers I’ve come to know at RBARI as well as the staff. The dedication of the volunteers is inspirational and the dedication of the staff to keeping the shelter animals happy, comfy and cozy has always amazed me. How lucky are these animals!! And how fortunate are the humans that have the privilege to learn from them. We truly learn how an animal perseveres and ultimately overcomes some previous life experiences and we certainly take something home from that.
Thank you RBARI..You’re awesome…Happy 2012!!!
Jean D J "

Thank You Jean! We think you are awesome too!