November 4, 2025 – West Palm Beach, FL

During today's Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners meeting, Mayor Maria Marino read aloud a proclamation officially designating November as Volunteer Appreciation Month for Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control (ACC) Volunteers.

The proclamation recognized the dedication and compassion of the many volunteers who donate their time (over 12,000 hours in the past year) and talents to support the shelter's lifesaving mission. ACC Director Janet Steele also expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting that volunteers and Community Cat trappers and caregivers play a vital role in improving the lives of animals through programs such as fostering, adoption events, Doggie Day Out excursions, Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate and Return of community cats, and community outreach.

Several volunteers attended the meeting to accept the honor on behalf of the entire volunteer team—joined by a special four-legged representative, “Edison," a shelter dog who proudly helped symbolize the animals whose lives are touched by their care.

​The County's proclamation serves as a reminder that behind every wagging tail and happy adoption story are dedicated volunteers whose compassion makes a lasting difference in the community.