VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT: EVELYN NACOL

At Doodle Dandy Rescue, some volunteers step in quietly and quickly become an essential part of the mission. Evelyn Nacol is one of those volunteers — bringing heart, empathy, and a deep sense of purpose to every moment she’s involved in rescue.

From her very first experience, Evelyn understood that this work is about more than logistics — it’s about people, connection, and second chances.

How Evelyn Joined the DDR Family

Evelyn began volunteering with Doodle Dandy Rescue this year, stepping in through transport and surrender support.

Her very first experience left a lasting impression.

"My very first experience was during a surrender, and I remember thinking, ‘This is bigger than I expected.’ It wasn’t just moving a dog from point A to point B — it was stepping into someone’s heartbreak while also holding hope for a new beginning. That moment stayed with me."

That powerful introduction shaped the way she approaches rescue — with both compassion and intention.

What She Does (Roles & Impact)

Evelyn supports DDR through:

• Transport

• Surrender support

While these roles may seem logistical on the surface, they are often deeply emotional moments in a dog’s journey. Evelyn helps ensure that both dogs and their families are met with care, respect, and understanding during times of transition.

Why Rescue Matters to Her

For Evelyn, rescue is rooted in something bigger than just helping dogs — it’s about community.

"What inspired me to get involved in rescue is simple: I care deeply about community."

She sees rescue as a reflection of the same values she lives out daily.

"It’s people coming together with purpose. It’s teamwork. It’s showing up when it matters. And I wanted to be part of something that changes lives — both canine and human."

What She Loves Most About DDR

"What I enjoy most about volunteering with Doodle Dandy Rescue is the heart behind it."

Evelyn is especially inspired by the balance DDR maintains — advocating for dogs while also showing compassion to the people involved.

"Rescue isn’t black and white. Every surrender has a story. Every foster has stepped up in a big way. Watching that coordination happen behind the scenes is inspiring."

A Rescue Memory That Stands Out

One moment that continues to stay with Evelyn is her very first transport.

"It was emotional. You could feel the bond the owner had for their dog, even in the middle of letting go."

That experience gave her a deeper understanding of what rescue truly requires.

"That experience reminded me that rescue work requires empathy just as much as logistics."

How Rescue Has Impacted Her

"Volunteering has taught me to lead with compassion first."

Through her work with DDR, Evelyn has gained a deeper perspective on both people and the situations they face.

"It has reminded me that people are often doing the best they can with the circumstances they’re in."

Rescue has not only stretched her emotionally, but also strengthened her ability to support others in meaningful ways.

"It’s stretched me emotionally and deepened my ability to hold space for others — something I value both in rescue and in my personal life."

Life Outside of Rescue

Outside of DDR, Evelyn is deeply involved in health and fitness, where she channels her passion for building strong individuals and strong communities.

"You’ll usually find me in the gym, training, and encouraging others to push past what they thought they were capable of."

Her love for teamwork and connection carries over into every part of her life.

"I love strong communities, and strong teams — and DDR absolutely embodies that spirit."

Why We’re Grateful

Evelyn brings empathy, strength, and a deep sense of purpose to Doodle Dandy Rescue. In roles that require both emotional awareness and reliability, she shows up with compassion and care for every dog and every person she encounters.

Her ability to lead with heart — even in the most difficult moments — makes a lasting impact on our rescue community. We are so grateful to have her as part of the Doodle Dandy Rescue family.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, join us here.

Written By: Madelyn, DDR Volunteer