When staff and residents see Andrea and a 8 year old golden doodle, coming down the hall, they greet the dog first. Everyone loves Tuesday afternoons because Andrea visits residents, staff members and visitors with her trained Therapy Dog, Summit. Summit now knows his routine and often plays catch with his favorite ball. They both hear wonderful stories about dogs the residents have owned.
Andrea and her husband, Ray, moved to Elk River in 2015 from Kansas. While in KS she became interested in and curious about pet therapy. It wasn’t long before she and Summit were in class.
They volunteered with Victory in the Valley, an organization that supports cancer patients. Summit brought cheer to them as they received chemotherapy, waited in waiting rooms, or visited them in hospitals. He especially enjoyed curling up in a bean bag chair with a child.
After getting settled into their new home, Andrea found herself with a little extra time on her hands and contacted Guardian Angels about volunteering-that was over a year ago!
GACC has benefited from her desire to become part of the community! It is a mutual relationship between Summit and the residents (and staff) -he loves the residents and the residents love him!
Andrea also volunteers in the Gifts and Treats shop one time per week. Volunteers really do make a difference! Smiles on our face and paw prints in our hearts. Guardian Angels Volunteers make each day brighter!
