HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- A good home is something many of the animals at the Huntington-Cabell-Wayne Animal Shelter have never known, but a few dedicated people are trying to make a difference.

This year, the shelter’s director Anita Asbury has noticed a change.

“The number of animals adopted, the number of animals being euthanized is coming down. It also affects the morale of the employees here," Asbury said.

For the change, Asbury credits to several volunteers who have helped hundreds of animals find quality care.

In December, an anonymous person nominated the volunteers to be WSAZ’s Hometown Heroes.

“What an honor. Thank you so much,” volunteer Kerith Groom said.

“There are so many people who make this possible. I wish they could be here, too. We love what we do, but we wish there wasn't a need for it," volunteer Brittany Brownfield said.

It’s a job where everyday matters. After receiving their Hometown Hero award, some of the volunteers helped to transport approximately seven dogs to an out-of-state no-kill shelter.

"Everybody says I don't know how you do what you do. But when you walk in here I look at it like I want to help this dog. So I try not to look at it at all like it's something for me," Groom said.

"I feel like it's going to grow. And it's going to make a huge difference. Who knows maybe in time maybe we can be the no-kill facility," Asbury said.

It’s a goal the volunteers one day hope to make a reality.