The Lakes Entrance Animal Aid Opportunity Shop is an integral part of Animal Aid’s functions and it desperately needs more volunteers.

The organisation is reliant on funds raised by this store in order to care for and rehome lost, abandoned, unwanted and surrendered animals.

“Volunteering has so many benefits. When you volunteer you are meeting new likeminded people and making friends. Most importantly, with us, you are changing the lives of thousands of animals,” Animal Aid volunteer manager, Ariel Jennings, said.

Helen Norman has been volunteering at the Lakes Op Shop for 10 years and loves it.

“We have a great staff and I meet such a mix of customers and many travellers from around the world. But the main thing is it’s for such a wonderful cause,” Helen said.

Anne Key, who organises on a day-to-day basis, hopes another two to four people could put their hand up to volunteer.

“It would lighten the load,” she said.

“We have just had one person retire, one away on holidays and another with illness.

“We are really desperate to get some more people to help out.”

“The contribution that our volunteers make to the organisation is immeasurable,” Animal Aid chief executive officer, Mark Menze, said.

“It is only because of their time, energy and expertise that we can continue our work in our communities.”

Drop into the Lakes Entrance Op Shop or visit the Animal Aid website to learn more.

Animal Aid is a not-for-profit charity operating in the Gippsland, South Gippsland and Eastern regions of Victoria.

More than 6000 animals come through its doors every year. It is dedicated to improving the welfare of all companion animals and passionately advocates and facilitates their adoption.