As the Volunteer Coordinator for the Houston Humane Society, I have the privilege of working with some of the best volunteers that the greater Houston area has to offer. But when I think of extraordinary, I think of a volunteer that doesn’t fit the normal mold of a typical volunteer; someone who goes above and beyond and who stands out in a crowd of wonderful volunteers. Coleman Oubre is a young man who volunteers his time at HHS several times a month, giving freely of his weekends, holidays and school breaks. While his favorite job at HHS is exercising and training the large dogs, he also takes the time to work closely with potential adopters to help them choose the right pet for their family. He watches over the puppies and small dogs to make ensure that they are properly handled and he shows up at special events ready and willing to do whatever task is assigned to him. 

Recently at our annual FUN Run, Coleman spent most of the day taking care of the adoptable dogs. He also took the initiative to walk around and ask his fellow volunteers if he could get them anything to eat or drink while they were hard at work, making several trips around the park throughout the day. And, to top it off, he somehow manages to put a smile on the face of everyone he comes into contact with. 

While this could describe many of the volunteers in the Houston area, the biggest difference is that this young man is only twelve years old. While his counterparts are at home playing video games and watching Saturday morning cartoons, Coleman is at the shelter with his mom and sister giving 110 percent. He walks dogs that weigh more than him with the ease of someone who is a natural. With the goal of someday becoming a veterinarian, he has the potential to help millions of animals throughout the course of his life. He is a true inspiration to volunteers of all ages and makes us all remember that true joy can be found by simply spending time with shelter dogs on a Saturday morning.

- Monica Schmidt, Houston Humane Society

Urban Paws would like to congratulate Coleman Oubre for his outstanding work as a shelter volunteer. He is an inspiration and is proof that it’s possible to make a difference, regardless of age. We would also like to congratulate all of the nominees. We honor the efforts of those who make a difference in the lives of animals and truly believe that the world is a better place to live in because of them.

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