In the heart of Pawleys Island, South Carolina, Cheryl Bussey has quietly emerged as a Local Hero to those without a voice. With 24 years of experience in elementary education, Cheryl spent her career instilling values of kindness, empowerment, and community in her students. Upon retiring and relocating to South Carolina, she was drawn to a new kind of classroom—the local animal shelter, All 4 Paws.

Six months into retirement, Cheryl discovered the shelter, which has rescued thousands of dogs since its founding in 2014. She started volunteering just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit, increasing the shelter’s need for committed helpers. What began as walking dogs and washing bowls quickly became a deeper mission for Cheryl, providing both purpose and peace.

Despite limited experience, Cheryl dove into her new role with heart. Her work expanded to include bathing dogs, cleaning kennels, and helping assess their health—sometimes uncovering hidden injuries that may have gone unnoticed, like a bullet wound on one dog. She also assisted with photographing the dogs to improve their adoption chances.

Over time, Cheryl found her place with the most vulnerable animals—those who needed extra care, attention, and love. One of her most rewarding experiences was helping nurse Thalia, a severely neglected dog, back to health and watching her be adopted into a loving home.

But Cheryl’s impact stretches far beyond the shelter walls. Her volunteerism has inspired former students and friends alike. Some now volunteer at All 4 Paws, and one former student even became a veterinarian and opened their own clinic. Cheryl has always believed in the power of mentorship and leading by example, showing others that meaningful change starts with small, consistent acts of compassion.

For Cheryl, the joy lies in the simple moments—grooming a dog, offering a kind touch, seeing the transformation from fearful to hopeful. Her efforts remind these animals that not all humans are harmful. And when it’s time for adoption, Cheryl plays a role in matching each dog with a family that can give them the love they deserve.

All 4 Paws is more than a shelter—it’s a community driven by love and resilience. Cheryl sees her work there not as charity, but as a mutual gift. “You give to these animals,” she says, “but you get so much more in return.”

Her story is a powerful reminder that volunteering doesn’t require wealth or grand gestures. As Cheryl teaches through action, showing up, caring, and doing what you can—consistently—makes all the difference.

Peter Reynolds once wrote, “Everything starts with a nudge.” For Cheryl, that nudge was a desire to stay connected to service. For those she’s touched—whether animal or human—that small start has led to lasting change.

All 4 Paws continues to thrive thanks to the dedication of volunteers like Cheryl and is currently raising funds to expand its facility. Cheryl’s journey stands as a beacon of what’s possible when compassion meets action—and how one person’s quiet commitment can ripple across an entire community.