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Deb Soricelli

Several years ago, Deb Soricelli was taking her first dog to dog training classes when she learned about a large tract of land in Ashford that was being donated to a worthy applicant, but it was years later that she came to find out that it would one day be the site of Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary.

It was during these same dog training classes, that Deb met Marie Joyner (Canine Operations Director and co-founder of OC). Marie was a great help in training Deb's rescue dog Chance. Deb went back to Marie several years later to again seek assistance before and after the rescue of her deaf boxer, Skye. A couple of years later Deb was back yet again with a third dog, Jabba, with whom Deb is currently doing Our Companions training classes.

In contacting Marie the second time, "That's when I found out that the land was awarded to Marie's group, and that it was called Our Companions," says Deb. "It became real for me at that moment." Deb had done volunteering for the MSPCA in the past, so the idea of helping and volunteering for OC was right up her alley.

Deb has been working with OC's Canine College and Marie Joyner, as a dog training volunteer. She still has a full-time job as a computer analyst at a local insurance company, but loves the time she spends doing OC-related activities. She assists Marie with group classes (dogs and their humans) and helps with dog evaluations. Deb is fascinated working with dogs, trying to understand what triggers their behaviors. She's learned a lot and thoroughly enjoys passing that valuable information along to others.

Deb's second dog has presented some interesting challenges, not surprisingly. Deb feels very fortunate to have found this loving companion who has opened her eyes and heart. Deb's experience working and living with Skye has provided Deb with a niche, making her all that much more valuable as a volunteer. She graciously shares her personal knowledge and experience in order to help owners of dogs with hearing impairments.

Recently, Deb has also begun working with the OC Helpline. "Although I can't do as much as I'd like, I really enjoy the volunteers associated with this program. They are amazing and I'm so glad to be helping to make a difference," says Deb.

The mission and vision of Our Companions really has meaning for Deb. "I sincerely appreciate and share the cause OC represents, along with its many ambitious goals. As soon as I knew this group was going to make the sanctuary a reality, I wanted to help — to play a part in the process," she says.

When asked what aspect of OC volunteering she likes best, she enthusiastically replies, "I really love it all, but I guess I'd have to say that dog evaluations are particularly interesting and rewarding. I also enjoy learning about the dogs and their owners as they come into class, and watching them progress over the weeks of training."

Deb's multi-faceted contributions have not gone unnoticed — volunteers and staff alike note her friendliness and willingness to help wherever and whenever she can. "Deb's involvement with this organization has just been phenomenal," reflected CEO Susan Linker. "No matter what she does, she infuses it with energy and enthusiasm. She's an inspiration to all of us."

Deb, we thank you for all you do for Our Companions. Your passion and dedication to the organization and the animals is so very much appreciated. We look forward to working with you in the years to come.


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