Volunteers Help Out at Orland Township's Pet-Palooza

More than 100 residents, from students to seniors, volunteered and helped make Orland Township’s 8th Annual Pet-Palooza a smooth running, successful event, according to the office of Orland Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady.

Many residents, like Andie Borucke and Bonnie Swiek are regular volunteers in the Orland Township Food Pantry. Both Borucke and Swiek have been volunteering at Orland Township for the past four years, at least once a week in the Food Pantry and also at many of the Township’s special events.

“I enjoy giving back by helping out those in need,” said Swiek, an Orland Park resident. “Pet-Palooza is a fun event to volunteer at because I love animals and really enjoy seeing all the cute costumes people dress their dogs in.”

“The people at Orland Township are wonderful and I really get a lot of satisfaction knowing that I’m helping others,” said Borucke, also a resident of Orland Park. “I love volunteering at the Pet-Palooza raffle table – I get to talk to and meet so many people as they come through, it’s really a fun day.”

Many students volunteer at Pet-Palooza to earn required service hours for school.

“I like volunteering at Pet-Palooza because it’s a great event that brings the community of pet lovers together,” said Marissa Hultman, a senior at Andrew High School. “Of course, I also love meeting tons of new furry friends!”

“Our volunteers give selflessly of their time and talent,” said Supervisor O’Grady. “Without them we would not be able to accomplish everything we do. They are the heart and soul of our Township.”

For more information on volunteer opportunities available at Orland Township, call (708) 403-4222.

Orland Township’s Pet-Palooza was held Saturday, Sept. 14 on the Orland Township grounds, 14807 S. Ravinia Ave.