Muncie Animal Rescue Fund works to protect and shelter dogs and cats, but they do so much more than that. They strike conversation, build meaningful relationships, and not just between people and animals. Something that stuck with me was Gary, the volunteer of 4 years. I wasn’t able to get last names, but he was so humble and dismissive of self-recognition, asking that attention go more towards the ladies working there, whom he considered his granddaughters. He spoke on how they always look out for him, whether that be walking a larger dog like Roman, the Great Dane, or teaching a high-energy dog to sit, like Louie (no matter how tiny he is). There was a community within a community, and it was absolutely inspiring to get to see even a part of it for 4 hours. Then there’s Sunny. Gary’s love and patience with her, a mama dog who spent 8-9 months on the street fending for herself and a litter of puppies, with a developed fear of men, is ceaseless. For her to gain enough courage to approach me, the photographer, and tap my knee with her nose was a huge step for her, and I was moved to be a part of her growing confidence and redeveloping trust in people. The hardest part wasn’t just seeing the dogs or cats in this state, but having to leave because of the warmth and hospitality felt by all the members of the staff, and the hope in all those animals’ eyes, regardless of where they came from. (Photos by Braelyn Cooper)