Volunteer Spotlight!

Ica and Joe Miller – volunteers for 40 years!

Volunteers come and go, and we’re grateful for whatever time we’re given when anyone helps our organization and our dogs and cats. But when volunteers devote almost four decades of their lives helping the same group…well, that’s pretty miraculous.

After moving to Mobile in 1972, Joe and Ica Miller’s son was bitten by a stray dog on his way to school. Some folks would let such an event drive them away from ever caring about animals…but in their case it simply opened their eyes to the plight of homeless animals in our area. And so Ica decided that she would help the Mobile SPCA in whatever way she could…and not only that, but she also talked her husband into donating his time as well. Their continuing love for animals and their desire to help touched their daughter Peggy Taylor too, and now Peggy manages the Mobile SPCA’s Second Chance Resale Shop.

“I have done just about everything through the years…spending hours on the telephone answering pet questions, taking in strays, fundraising, recruiting new members and convincing Joe how he could be an asset too. He was the Treasurer for the group and helped with projects that called for a little carpentry work. I eventually concentrated on the rummage sales we had to make money and I still do that today. We both help with the rummage sales along with our daughter Peggy.” “We have enjoyed this group through the years and certainly all of the animal friends we have come in contact with. The work can be challenging and difficult at times but the rewards are great when you see happy pets and their new owners.”

Joe and Ica share their family home with a 13-year-old dog they found in the middle of the road in west Mobile and a 12-year-old cat who was born in a pile of brush behind Baker School. “Coming back to Mobile is always a joy for us where we have family, friends and our volunteer work.”

Thank you, Joe and Ica, for unmatched dedication to our organization. The impact you both have made and the help you’ve given the MSPCA is unique and truly special.