A sense of belonging

Love is caring in action and completely describes Bernardo “Bernie” Alfonso. He is a coordinator for the Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) Program at the Animal Services Department (ASD).

He joined ASD only a couple of years ago, but as a private citizen, he has been a rescue partner since 2010.

“I would take home those cats and dogs that were sick, hurt or fearful to nurture them and care for them and prepare them for adoption. Helping the helpless recover, feel warmth and care made my heart full. Little did I know that I would find my home at ASD one day.”

For 19 years, Alfonso was a training instructor at Norwegian Caribbean Lines (NCL). Employees would complete his four-week course before starting in reservations. The Pandemic closed the industry and he was laid off. He applied and was hired as a receiving clerk.

“This was an extremely tough assignment,” Alfonso explained. “Residents sometimes have to give up pets for adoption or bring their dead pets for the caring of their remains. These are difficult situations. We do our best to provide support and assistance. After a few months, I applied and was transferred to adoption counselor. There, I helped match pets with new homes. Shortly after, I joined the wellness center, where I provided public education regarding tags and vaccines until I started at TNVR.”

“We work with volunteers to capture stray cats and get them neutered and vaccinated before returning them to the community. We are really making a difference and I’m incredibly proud to be able to help our residents. We are able to help them find ways of coexisting with cats that roam their neighborhood, even peacocks and ducks.”

Alfonso speaks proudly about being a County employee. He has a sense of belonging.

“I was born and raised in South Florida. Our services are among the best anywhere in the country. At ASD, we have been working hard and are always trying to find ways to adapt to serve the public better. Before, for example, we only had some service areas open during regular business hours. We have been able to start moonlight pick-ups here at TNVR now.”

“When our Mayor encourages us to know everything we can about the County, and promotes No Wrong Door, I feel a responsibility to be an ambassador for our organization. That means I have to learn as much as I can to help others, even when I am not at work.”

“All my life, I loved animals but didn’t realize what I would be able to do as a member of the team at the Animal Services Department. I feel like I found my purpose, my home.”

When not on the job, Alfonso enjoys traveling and dancing. He appreciates learning about different cultures. While he says he is a simple, quiet guy, his energy and enthusiasm build bridges and connections with everyone he meets.

Learn more about ASD’s TVNR Program.