From Volunteer to Program Trainer and Enrolments Officer – Sara’s Journey at HPHH
For 10 years, Happy Paws Happy Hearts (HPHH) has been creating positive connections between socially isolated Australians and rescue animals. Behind every meaningful interaction and every moment of growth, there are dedicated staff members who make it all possible.
One of those many incredible team members is Sara, who has worn many hats at HPHH—starting as a volunteer at Wacol, becoming a Program Trainer at Dakabin, and now working as an Enrolments Officer. Her journey reflects not just her passion for animals and the power their bonds have with people, but also the impact she has witnessed at Happy Paws Happy Hearts for both participants and staff through her time with us.
A Passion for Connection
Sara’s HPHH journey began while she was studying psychology, with a strong interest in the mental health benefits of working with animals.
"I came across HPHH’s website and immediately felt drawn to their mission of connecting socially isolated people with rescue animals in need—I knew I had to be part of it. I started as a volunteer at Wacol, helping in sessions and witnessing firsthand the impact of the programs on participants."
When she had to move from Brisbane further north, she thought she might have to step away from HPHH—until an exciting opportunity arose.
"I was so excited to see when Happy Paws Happy Hearts was opening a new site at Dakabin, and I was lucky enough to be asked to join the new location as a Program Trainer. It was such a rewarding experience to help establish that location, welcome new participants, and see the program grow."
Helping Build a Community at Dakabin
Sara was part of the early days of HPHH Dakabin, helping establish the mobile site and bringing the program’s impact to a new region.
"It was incredibly exciting to be part of something new. I saw the participant base grow rapidly, often through word of mouth, because people saw the impact the program had on others and wanted to be part of it. We reached a point where new participants had to join a waitlist because those already enrolled loved it so much they didn’t want to leave. That sense of belonging was incredible to witness."
A New Role, A New Perspective
After taking maternity leave, Sara returned to HPHH in a new role as a Senior Enrolments Officer, helping guide new participants into the program.
"I did hesitate at first, knowing I would miss the beautiful hands-on interactions with participants and animals. But I quickly realised that my new role still allowed me to be part of their journey, just in a different way."
Now, instead of working face-to-face in sessions, Sara helps introduce new participants to the program, hear their stories, and see them embark on a new journey of growth.
"It’s so rewarding to hear from participants about how HPHH has helped them build confidence. Seeing them graduate from programs and move on to work, volunteering, or study is a testament to the impact we create."
The Next 10 Years
As HPHH celebrates 10 years of impact, Sara reflects on the future:
"I hope we continue to expand, reaching more people who need these programs. But most of all, I hope we always maintain the strong sense of community that makes HPHH so special. It’s amazing to think of how much we’ve grown in 10 years, and I can’t wait to see what the next decade holds."
As we reflect on creating 10 years of positive change for socially isolated Australians and animals in need, we are so grateful to celebrate our incredible staff members, like Sara, who have made HPHH the special, inclusive and supportive space it is today.
You can read more stories celebrating our 10 years, share in some amazing achievements and see how you can support us, by visiting out 10-year milestone anniversary website page.