Emerald Stratigopoulos, a Project Geologist, discovered Passion for Paws while actively searching for no-kill shelters where she could contribute meaningfully to animal rescue efforts. Wanting to help in any way she could, she joined as a Facebook Sharing Volunteer focused on advocacy and outreach, sharing adoption profiles across multiple Facebook groups to help animals find loving homes more quickly.

Emerald has loved animals for as long as she can remember, and the connection she feels with them is something she finds impossible to fully put into words. A vegan for over six years, animal welfare is deeply important to her in every aspect of life—not just as a belief, but as a responsibility. Though she loves all animals, her cat Chester was her soulmate and recently crossed the rainbow bridge. Pouring her time and energy into helping other animals find loving homes has become a meaningful way for her to cope with the grief of losing her best friend.

She was especially drawn to Passion for Paws because she firmly believes that no animal should spend days, months, or even years frightened and confined in a shelter. Helping animals transition into foster homes—where they can feel safe, loved, and truly seen—is something she finds profoundly important.

Volunteering with Passion for Paws allows Emerald to honor Chester’s memory while making a real difference in the lives of animals who are still waiting for their second chance.