Volunteer Spotlight: Sunitha & Saisha

Meet Sunitha and Saisha. This inspiring mother-daughter duo first joined Mission as in-hospital volunteers and have since made it their annual tradition to lend their time and hearts to our Raise the Woof fundraising gala. This was their third year volunteering at the gala, and their teamwork, compassion, and commitment shine bright each year, reminding us that helping pets in need is even more meaningful when done together.

Tell us a little bit about yourselves and what drew you to volunteering with Mission Animal Hospital?

Saisha: I’m a junior at Eden Prairie High School, and my mom and I started volunteering with Mission Animal Hospital in June of 2023. I originally wanted to volunteer because I love animals, but since I was only 14, I needed an adult with me. My mom decided to join, and it ended up becoming something we both love doing together.

Sunitha: I work as a software engineer at an IT firm. Back in India, we had a Labrador who lived with us for 12 years, so animals have always had a special place in my heart. When my daughter showed interest in volunteering and needed an adult to join her since she was under 16, it gave me the perfect opportunity to get involved too. I love that the schedule is flexible and that we can spend quality time together while contributing to such a meaningful cause.

Q: Do you remember your first gala together? What was that experience like? 

Saisha: Yes! We were selling beads that year, and it was so fun talking to everyone and seeing how excited people were to support Mission. It was definitely busy, but such a great experience. You could really feel how much love and effort goes into making it all happen

Sunitha: It was a little overwhelming at first, but so much fun! Our first year, we were selling beads for one of the games, and we were determined to sell out, and we actually did! By the end of the night, I checked my watch and realized we had walked around 6,000 steps. It was tiring, but so worth it.

What’s it like volunteering together as a mother/daughter duo? 

Saisha: It’s really a fun experience! I’m definitely the crazy one who likes to go through things with lots of energy, and my mom is the one who balances us out with her calm spirit.

Sunitha: As a mother, I’ve always loved volunteering with my daughter. We’ve helped at places like FMSC and the EP Eco Expo, and Raise the Woof has been such a great addition to that list. It’s such a pleasure to watch my daughter take the lead, approaching guests, selling items, and chatting confidently like an adult. We have great synchronicity, which makes it so much easier to get things done. Our first year, we sold beads; the second year, we sold stuffed animals; and this year, we helped with check-ins. We each contribute in our own way, and our goal is always the same: to get the job done while having fun together.

Q: Do you have any favorite memories or moments from volunteering side by side?

Saisha: The puppies! Every year they have some there, and petting them is always the best part. Something that always makes me laugh is how my mom is right behind me, reminding me to sanitize every single time I pet them.

Sunitha: Yes! As a mom and daughter, we love planning what to wear, usually starting about two weeks before the event. We motivate each other, and at the same time, we’re also each other’s biggest critics, always finding ways to do better and make our volunteering experience even smoother.

How do your strengths complement each other when you’re helping out at the event?

Saisha: My mom keeps things running smoothly and makes sure we’re on track, and I’m usually the one running around talking to guests or helping wherever I can.

Sunitha: Saisha’s the one who’s super energetic and proactive about talking to people which really brightens the atmosphere! 

What have you learned about each other through volunteering?

Saisha: I've learned that my mom is really good at taking a step back and being able to assess situations really well and she also has a lot of patience. 

Sunitha: I’ve learned that Saisha is really resourceful and able to deal with new situations on her own, which is something that I am really proud of! 

What’s the most surprising or memorable behind-the-scenes moment you’ve experienced as volunteers?

Saisha: My most memorable behind-the-scenes moment was definitely realizing how organized everything has to be. It’s busy, but everyone’s so kind and the amazing energy is what keeps us all going! 

Sunitha: It truly takes a village behind the scenes to make the event run seamlessly. I’ve always admired Megan, who somehow keeps her smile on and stays so enthusiastic even when she probably has a thousand things running through her mind. Each year, these events have been such a success, and it’s amazing to see people of all ages come together and enjoy the evening.

Q: Why is Mission Animal Hospital’s work meaningful to you personally?Saisha: We’ve always loved animals, and Mission helps make sure families can take care of their pets even when times are tough. That’s something we both really care about.

Sunitha: Having been a dog owner in the past, I understand how much pets mean to a family. It can be heartbreaking when families can’t afford the care their pets need, and Mission steps in to make a real difference. Hats off to Mission Animal Hospital for helping those families and putting smiles back on their faces.

What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering at Raise the Woof for the first time? 

Saisha: Definitely do it! It’s so much fun, and everyone is super welcoming. You get to help out, meet amazing people, and make a real difference. Plus, you’ll probably get some puppy cuddles, which are arguably the best part!

Sunitha: Yes, absolutely! I’d definitely encourage anyone to volunteer and be part of the mission. There are so many different areas where you can help, and the flexible schedule makes it easy to contribute whenever you’re available. It’s such a rewarding experience.

How does volunteering together strengthen your bond as mother and daughter?

Saisha: Volunteering kind of forces us to work together and spend time with each other, which really strengthens our bond and helps us see the best parts of each other.

Sunitha: It creates a sense of unity and shared purpose, and definitely builds lifelong memories. I also love being a role model for my daughter, showing her the importance of giving back to the community in whatever ways we can.