On my way to the office today, I was listening to the radio and heard a commercial for a local non
-profit group needing donations. I got to thinking about how the economy has affected so many families that have lost their jobs and their homes and wondered how I could help.
Then I got to thinking about a large part of our population that more-often-than-not gets forgotten. This group has really been affected by foreclosure, short sale, job loss, and divorce. They aren't more important than others, but I think they still deserve our thoughts, time and cash this time of year.
I'm talking about our pets. I love my dogs and Marvin the King. They are my kids. So, this year, I'm going to cut back a bit on my human gift giving and make a few donations in memory of my kids who have gone on to the Rainbow Bridge. It won't be a huge amount, but when it comes to pet rescues and shelters, every bit helps. Our local shelter receives nearly 3,000 animals each year and tries to re-home as many as possible. But funding is always an issue. There are many great rescues out there: do you like cats, Rottweilers, Yorkies, Rabbits, etc. Just Google your pet of choice with "rescue" behind it and you'll find thousands of rescues that you can help. Many rescues have an Angel program where you can sponsor one specific pet of your choice.
A great thing about donating is that many times it's tax-deductible (insert legal disclaimer that I am not a tax professional and you should consult one regarding any tax related stuff!) You can also donate needed items like cat toys, leashes, collars, beds, bleach, laundry soap, old towels, dog/cat treats, and much more. Just call or email your local shelter or rescue and ask them what they need most. Sometimes they need a large item like a new truck or van-get with your local auto dealers and see if they will donate a used, good vehicle. Many times these are needed to get pets to adoption events, meet and greets or transport to new foster homes. Whatever you decide to do-JUST DO IT!!
If you aren't a "pet person", think about what you are passionate about and ask how you can help. Donate a few hours to help a literacy group, women's shelter, orphans, donate food to your local food pantry, collect coats for kids, etc.
Oh and this are a couple of huge side affects to doing this tax-deductible stuff: it makes a difference in a life and it makes you feel good!! So, get out there and HELP! Trust me YOU'LL LOVE IT! If you live in or around Henderson just contact the Volunteer and Information Center at 270-831-2273 and ask who/how you can help.
Here are a few of my personal favorites:
Mid-America Border Collie Rescue
ARPH (Australian Rescue and Placement Helpline)
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