Welcome back to our Volunteer of the Month series – where we shine a light on our fantastic volunteers and the amazing work they do for us.

This month, Kerenza who is partnered with canine partner Whisky shares her experience of volunteering and fundraising for Canine Partners.

Getting crafty for canines

My mum and I love making handmade cards and crafts which we sell at Canine Partners events as well as local craft fairs. Alongside this, I also give talks at Information Sessions, groups and schools. Talking about my life before Whisky came along and how much it has now improved with him by my side.

Volunteering for Canine Partners gives me a great deal of satisfaction knowing I am giving something back to the charity that gave me back my independence. I also get to meet some amazing people and feel like a member of the community. It feels like I have a purpose once again.

I hope that through my volunteering and fundraising, I can help spread the word and raise much needed funds so that another disabled person can benefit from a life changing dog.

Everybody loves Whisky

When out volunteering for the charity, Whisky loves to be involved as much as possible! He loves meeting everyone and spreading the Canine Partners love. He especially enjoys meeting children and the elderly where his gentle nature always makes him a hit.

If I am speaking at an event, he will sit or lay beside my wheelchair, often going to sleep – this is great until he starts snoring! However, at craft fairs and busier events he likes to poke his head out from under the table and keep an eye on things, making sure to say hello to anyone who has stopped to browse our crafts.

Whisky loves interacting and is quite happy to demonstrate his amazing skills, including picking up my purse or keys.

The gift of independence

Getting matched with Whisky was a true gift that has enabled me to blossom and grow outside of the confines of my home where, before he entered my life, I was trapped, unable to go out – frightened, scared and alone.

Volunteering with Canine Partners is my chance to say thank you for giving me my life back, and the fundraising I do helps to give that gift to someone else.

> Find out more about how you can help create more amazing partnerships with our Gift of Independence scheme​.