Volunteer Spotlight - Trish Gradley

Our lovely Volunteer Spotlight for the month of July is none other than Trish Gradley. Trish has been one of our devoted Receptionist Volunteers for nearly the last decade!

In the mid-1990s a coworker of Trish’s told her about The Raptor Trust, which sparked her interest to volunteer. Having a long-time passion for animals (especially birds) both wild and domestic, Trish wanted to help any way she could and was pleasantly surprised that right here in Millington was this hidden gem. When her career allowed for more flexibility, she joined the TRT volunteer family - 9 years ago.

Trish enjoys her admit office position because it allows her to see the variety of birds we receive, and why they end up here. It is gratifying for her to update the records and see how the rehabilitation process goes, and to see all that goes into caring for these birds. When Trish is not tirelessly entering data, she enjoys Ping Pong, Hiking, the menagerie of wildlife in her backyard, thoroughbred racing, as well as spending time with her 31-year-old Cockatoo, fittingly named Sweetpea.

Trish is partial to Cockatoos, but if she had to pick a favorite wild bird it would have to be a Bald Eagle! She cannot speak highly enough of the TRT crew, and the feeling is mutual. Countless hours of training new volunteers and maintaining our database is no easy feat. We could not do it without you Trish; thank you for everything you do!