Turning Hardship Into Help: Volunteering at McKamey Animal Center During COVID

When the world shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, it felt like everything came to a standstill—businesses, routines, and in many ways, even our sense of hope. But for the rescue animals at McKamey Animal Center (MAC) in Chattanooga, Tennessee, life didn’t stop. They still needed food. They still needed love. And they still needed someone to care when the world wasn’t watching.

That’s where I stepped in.

During the height of the pandemic, I started volunteering at MAC because I couldn’t stand the idea of so many animals being locked in cages without visitors, without affection, and without the basic human connection they desperately needed. These animals—many abandoned or rescued from harsh conditions—were living in silence, day after day, while the rest of the world was stuck at home. But just because everything else had paused didn’t mean their needs had.

I didn’t go in with a master plan. I just showed up. And that’s really the first step to making a difference: show up, even when things are uncertain, even when it feels small.

As Boston Made started gaining momentum, I saw an opportunity to do more. We donated harnesses, clothes, and accessories to the shelter—enough for every dog in the place to have something new, something that said, you matter. It may seem simple, but when an animal has never had anything to call its own, even a small gesture goes a long way.

We set up a full photo op for the animals, dressed in Boston Made gear, looking fresh and full of personality. That moment turned into something bigger than I expected—NBC in Chattanooga picked up the story and featured it on television. What started as a small effort during a dark time turned into a movement of visibility, compassion, and connection.

Here’s what I’ve learned: when hard times hit, they don’t just reveal who we are—they shape who we become. It’s easy to spiral when life gets overwhelming. But the real power comes when you take that energy and pour it into something else—someone else. Even if that “someone” has four legs and a wagging tail.

The truth is, we can’t always control what happens to us. But we can control what we do in response. For me, helping the animals at MAC was more than just volunteering—it was a way to reclaim purpose when everything felt uncertain.

What comes around really does go around. When you give freely, when you show up with no agenda other than to make something—anything—better, the return is always deeper than you expect. I didn’t just help those animals; they helped me too. They reminded me what it means to care, to connect, and to keep moving forward even when the world stands still.

Stay kind, stay active, and when in doubt—do something for someone else.

Until next time,

Nate

Founder, Boston Made

How to Start Volunteering at a Shelter

People ask me how to get involved, and my answer is always the same: start where you are, with what you have. If you are thinking about volunteering at a local shelter or rescue, here is a simple path.

1. Find the shelters near you. Look up your city or county animal center and local rescue groups. Many post volunteer information on their websites.
2. Attend an orientation. Most shelters require a short training session so volunteers understand safety rules, animal handling and procedures.
3. Pick a role that fits. Dog walking, cat socializing, laundry, cleaning, event help, photography and transport all make a difference.
4. Commit to a schedule. Even a couple of hours on the same day each week helps staff plan and gives animals a familiar face.
5. Follow the rules. Shelters have protocols for health and safety. Respecting them protects the animals and you.

Donating Gear the Right Way

Giving the dogs something of their own meant a lot to me. If you want to do something similar, a few tips make sure your donation actually helps:

• Ask first. Contact the shelter to find out what it needs and what it can accept. Wish lists change often.
• Bring a range of sizes. Shelters house everything from tiny dogs to large breeds.
• Choose practical items. Harnesses, leashes, collars, blankets and washable bedding tend to get the most use.
• Keep it clean and safe. New or gently used items in good condition, with no loose parts, are best.
• Coordinate photos. If you want to photograph animals with donated items, ask staff how to do it safely and whether the photos can help with adoption promotion.

What Animals Need When Visitors Stay Away

During those quiet months, I saw how much the animals missed people. Shelter life can be stressful even in normal times. Volunteers can help in ways that go beyond food and water:

• Calm company. Sitting quietly near a kennel, reading aloud or speaking softly helps animals get used to people.
• Enrichment. Puzzle toys, sniffing games and safe chews ease boredom.
• Exercise. Walks and supervised play burn off energy and reduce stress.
• Good photos and bios. A great picture and a few honest, upbeat lines can help an animal get noticed by the right family.

None of it takes special skill. It takes patience, a willingness to show up on a regular schedule and the humility to follow the lead of the staff who know each animal best.

Questions People Ask About Volunteering

Do I need experience with animals?

Not usually. Shelters train volunteers and often have roles for every comfort level, including jobs that do not involve handling animals at all.

Can kids volunteer?

Many shelters set minimum ages for volunteers, sometimes with options for families to help together. Ask your local shelter about its policy.

What if I cannot volunteer in person?

You can still help by sharing adoptable animals online, organizing a supply drive, fostering or helping with transport.

Is it hard emotionally?

It can be. Seeing animals in need is tough. But watching one go home with a family makes every hard day worth it. Take breaks when you need them, and lean on fellow volunteers.

How do I know if a shelter is a good place to volunteer?

Look for clear training, friendly communication and a focus on the animals’ wellbeing. A well-run program will answer your questions openly and make you feel welcome from your first visit.