Submitted by the Animal Protection Society – Friday Harbor.

Please join us in celebrating Amara Johnsen, honored as Volunteer of the Month for November 2024 by Animal Protection Society-Friday Harbor!

She initiated a fun source of revenue at Treasure Hounds, the APS-affiliated upscale resale store on Spring Street, and she continues to share her valuable skills to the benefit of our island’s adoptable cats and dogs.

Johnsen’s participation as a volunteer began in 2021 with Treasure Hounds. Now she also works at the animal shelter as an administrative assistant and receptionist.

Throughout the years, Johnsen has created jewelry for her personal business and more recently began pricing jewelry for resale at Treasure Hounds. While looking on eBay to price costume jewelry, she spied a sale lot with incredibly tempting items.

Because of Johnsen’s quick action, the jewelry debuted on creative displays at Treasure Hounds in a Labor Day sale that exceeded all hopes. The very successful endeavor convinced decision-makers to make permanent space in the store for the new revenue stream.

Executive Director Cristin Felso marvels at the hours that Johnsen shares to research, price, clean, repair and even remake the jewelry to increase its appeal. “She also designs the beautiful jewelry displays in the store,” Felso says. “Amara cares deeply about the cats and dogs cared for by APS-FH, and it shows in the time that she spends and the quality of what she produces. We are so fortunate to have her involvement.”

The shelter’s outreach coordinator, Emily Smith, isn’t surprised that Johnsen’s efforts charmed Treasured Hounds customers. “As anyone who was there can attest, Amara worked her magic, creating a warm, inviting, informative fun space — not unlike the vibes she brings to her role at the shelter,” she says. “Whether she’s in employee mode or volunteer mode, Amara brings passion and compassion to everything she does.”