Marissa LaVigne puts good into the world and has fun

How was Chicagoland Animal Rescue fortunate enough to meet Marissa LaVigne? In May 2021, she began volunteering after finding CAR on volunteermatch.org. A previous dog walker, Marissa missed taking care of animals and felt that she needed something else in her life.

Every other week Marissa volunteers for an evening, cleaning and straightening cats’ temporary homes, feeding them, giving medications when needed, socializing and loving them. Her contributions go beyond that to training new volunteers and, when able, filling in shifts. When asked why she volunteers, she replied, “To keep doing good things, put good things into the world and have fun.”

Marissa at CAR with her favorite boy, Tagalong, who purrs when she holds him like a baby.

Professionally, Marissa is a production technician and plans jobs for a cable mesh solutions company whose product is used on the Golden Gate Bridge’s suicide deterrent, as well as Navy Pier’s Centennial Wheel.

In her free time, Marissa enjoys books, her favorite being a lighthearted mystery series that features crime solving Siamese cats. She also aspires to run a half marathon by end of summer.

Marissa, your kindness and comforting presence help create a safe, loving environment for every kitten and cat in CAR’s care and helps them find forever homes. We are so grateful for you and everything you do!

volunteer spotlight interview & write up by Stacey Field Cherwin