WEST KENNEBUNK — Volunteers give their heart and time to help the Animal Welfare Society and the animals they look after.

AWS is a nonprofit humane society serving York County as an open-admission, no-kill animal shelter and adoption center. There is an in-house veterinary clinic and programs to assist pets and their owners, such as the Humane Education Program for Children, K-9 training, and programs that work with other community groups.

With help from volunteers, the shelter successfully serves the community. While many help with activities such as walking dogs or grooming cats, there are some who go above and beyond in their service.

Gary and Mona Cossaboom, a husband and wife duo, are two volunteers whose service has made a great impact on the shelter since joining over a year ago. With a history in retail and antiques, they decided to head the antique committee when the opportunity was presented.

Stephanie Kelley, AWS marketing associate, says the Cossaboom’s were a great addition and are helping the community in an unconventional way.

The Cossaboom’s spend their summers collecting, cleaning, and pricing donated antiques and collectibles to prepare for the show.

“We feel very proud to be a part of the wonderful group of volunteers at the shelter,” said Cossaboom. “Everyone has the same goal, to make sure the animals are well taken care of and loved until they find their forever homes.”

Collection for the antique show starts in spring, along with coordinating with donors. Other tasks include polishing, cleaning, pricing antiques, and visiting flea markets for the show.

Goosefare antiques, based in Wells, puts on the annual antique show. A portion of ticket sales are donated to the shelter.

Kelley says they are grateful for the contribution from Goosefare antiques and visitors of the antique show. Last year, more than $13,000 was raised for AWS.

“Fundraising and the antique show are important to the community because it provides money for the programs and animals which serve our community,” said Kelley. “All proceeds from the AWS booth goe directly to the animals.”

This year will mark the 89th Antique Show and Sale which features various items, such as vintage linens, priceless antiques, jewelry and collectibles. 

“I think the antique show is a very creative idea for a fundraiser,” said Cossaboom. “I hope everyone comes to the show to see what wonderful and surprising donations we have this year.” 

The show will take place Aug. 12 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Aug. 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Middle School of the Kennebunks, 60 Thompson Road, West Kennebunk.