SCOOP Spring 2019 FINAL A

Volunteer Spotlight: Joann Biondi
A 10-year volunteer, Joann Biondi visited ARF shortly
before retiring from a 40-year career in Special Education,
after a colleague had mentioned the Pet Hug Pack ®
therapy animal program. During her first visit, she spotted
a gorgeous cat, soon to be renamed Cara Mia, who would
fulfill her own destiny as a therapy animal – with Joann!
Joann’s experience working with disabled children
made her an invaluable addition to Camp ARF, school
programs, and community therapy animal visits. One
particular hospital visit with Cara Mia stands out to Joann.
“As we entered a patient’s room, we heard her say, ‘Oh
no, I don’t like cats. Thank you. Don’t bring her in here!’”
Joann said. “Cara Mia (who rides in a stroller) heard her
and did a complete turn, showing the lady her backside.
Everyone laughed so hard and wondered how she knew
she wasn’t welcome. She did because cats are intuitive
and special.”
Joann has also been an influential leader in ARF’s
recent Capital Campaign. “I have a daily calendar also
with sayings,” she said. “There was one day recently
that said, ‘The Meaning of Life is to Find your Gift. The
Purpose of Life is to Give it Away.’”
In the case of Joann Biondi and her very special cats, the
community is a grateful recipient of their incredible gifts
of spirit and service.
Photo courtesy of Share the Joy Photography
Joann with her cats: (left to right) Figaro, Cara Mia, and Gianna.
Pet Hug Pack®: Not Just for the Dogs!
Did you know that our Pet Hug Pack ® is open to
animals of any kind, including cats just like Joann’s?
From Ragdolls to Tabbies, Maine Coons to Siamese,
we have some fabulous felines in the program.
Obviously, not every cat is cut out for therapy animal
work. For some kitties, the idea of meeting a group of
new people in a strange room is not at all appealing.
Occasionally, events are held outdoors, requiring
them to be on a leash. Even the idea of wearing the
trademark PHP yellow vest would be too much to ask
for many cats, but our program’s talented felines love
it all.
If you think your cat has what it takes to be a therapy
animal and you’d like to volunteer with ARF’s Pet
Hug Pack ® , contact our Pet Hug Pack Coordinator at
acardiasmenos@arflife.org right meow!
“People light up when they see our
therapy cats. Cat people need some Pet
Hug Pack® animal love, too!”
Athena, ARF Pet Hug Pack Coordinator
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