“I’ve made their day!” she says enthusiastically. “They thank me for thanking them and for my volunteer work to support the HBSPCA! I was so surprised by that!”
From Donor to Volunteer: Edwina Orr’s Heartfelt Mission to Give Back and Support the HBSPCA
Edwina Orr began volunteering with the HBSPCA's development department just over a year ago, and since then, she has ‘graduated’ to doing two volunteer shifts a week. In her role, she calls donors to thank them for their contributions—and with so many calls to make, she has increased her time at the shelter. She’s also delighted by the positive responses she receives from donors.
.jpg)
Edwina believes that expressing gratitude is crucial. While texts and emails are convenient, she feels that genuine, personal thank-yous make a far stronger connection. She also acknowledges that, particularly in these challenging times following the pandemic, people need more vocal affirmations of their support.
Edwina’s involvement with the organization began in an unexpected way. Having been along-time donor to the HBSPCA, one day she called with a concern about not being able to reach someone for assistance. On the call, she spoke with Julie Watt, the Director of Individual Giving, who shared that there was a shortage of volunteers to help with donor stewardship. By the end of the conversation, Edwina had signed up to volunteer, agreeing to call donors personally to thank them for their generous contributions.
Julie Watt, Director of Individual Giving, emphasizes the significance of Edwina’s volunteer efforts: “As the Director of Individual Giving, I can’t stress enough how important it is to personally connect with our donors. Our volunteer Thank-you Phone Call Program is a vital part of that. These calls allow us to say a heartfelt ‘thank you’ and let donors know how much we truly appreciate them. Hearing from us directly adds a personal touch that emails or letters can’t match. It also strengthens our donors' connection to our mission and gives them an opportunity to provide feedback. Most importantly, it lets them know the incredible impact their support has on the animals we care for.”
A seasoned helper in her community; Edwina’s background is full of compassionate care. In 1998, her husband of 42 years, Douglas, suffered a stroke. She cared for him until he passed away from cancer in 2006. Afterward, she took a palliative care course through the VON and cared for two clients, applying the knowledge she gained during her caregiving experience. “I know what to do,” she says with confidence. “I’ve even been mistaken for a nurse.”
Before retiring, Edwina worked in various office roles, focusing on payroll and accounting. In addition to volunteering, she is an avid reader of murder mysteries, frequently visiting the library, and enjoys crosswords and gardening—growing flowers and a few tomato plants. She’s also a dedicated friend, regularly helping a 92-year-old neighbour with errands and grocery shopping.
“I like to help one-on-one,” she says. “If you need me, give me a call.”
What does volunteering at the HBSPCA mean for Edwina?
“I love talking to the people, and it feels good knowing that I’m helping the animals,” she shares. “The staff genuinely care, and you can feel that. They always thank you as you leave, and that makes me feel appreciated too. I just want to help out—everyone can use a little help now and then.”
Edwina's love for animals is clear. She had a cat, Sophie, for 14 years, who passed away at the age of 20. Afterward, she found two rescue cats, Toby and Tasha, both of whom had faced difficult circumstances. Edwina patiently worked with them until they adjusted to their new home. Tragically, Toby passed away at the age of 15 in Edwina's arms. She gently introduced Tasha to Toby’s body, allowing her to grieve. Now 15 years old, Tasha remains by Edwina’s side.
Edwina tried to foster a large white cat named Einstein, but it didn’t work out. She says, “I’ve come to realize that Tasha runs the house, and that suits both of us just fine.”
Edwina lives alone now—her sister resides in Georgia and her brother on Vancouver Island—but she has a strong network of good friends in her neighbourhood.
“It’s my time to give back,” she says. “Douglas went at his time, and I believe it’s important to contribute in whatever way I can.”
Her motto in life is simple: “Keep moving.” She hopes to spend her last years in her home, just as her father and Douglas did. “I’m already thinking about what flowers I’ll plant and which bushes need trimming come spring,” she adds with a smile.
Thank you for your incredible contributions, Edwina! The animals, and the entire HBSPCA community, are fortunate to have you.
By Pearl Wolfe
