Tehama - The Magazine

26 TEHAMA - THE MAGAZINE, May 2017 P.E.T.S. volunteers actively participate in local community events like L.I.F.T. and Community Action Agency Tailgate giveaways when resources allow. They were particularly fortunate in having the Walmart Distribution Center (WDC) assist them in their endeavors over the last few years. With the contributions of WDC and many other dedicated individuals, P.E.T.S. instituted the "Feasting on Kindness" program to address one of the common reasons that people surrender their beloved pets to the shelter. The program provides pet food to low income families, in order for them to keep their furry companions during difficult times. Through collaboration and engagement with other Tehama County non-profit organizations, government agencies, community food centers and churches of all faiths, P.E.T.S., this past year, was able to supply over 4,000 pounds of pet food to those in need. By improving the relationship between people and companion pets, the quality of life for all improves and the chances of pet retention in the home increases. To support responsible pet ownership P.E.T.S. provides educational materials to introduce the higher ideals of compassion toward pets and people, and to promote the control of pet over-population. Through its social media outlets, its website and news column, and community awareness events, P.E.T.S. serves as a pet-care resource for community members, addressing concerns and providing pertinent information as needed. The public, including local youths, are encouraged to volunteer with the organization and work together to achieve its goal. The intent is to empower individuals to stand up for the humane treatment of animals. How, you might ask, does an organization like P.E.T.S. accomplish everything? One must understand, to appreciate the scope of the achievements thus far, that P.E.T.S. receives no federal, state, or local funding. Everything undertaken is the result of donations, fundraising efforts, and the hard work performed by extremely committed volunteers. No one person can do everything. A truly successful organization is the product of teamwork and requires the direction of people with varied skills and talents who share a firm dedication to the group's ultimate purpose. The P.E.T.S. governing Board of Directors is that team. They are truly committed to the organization's goal of improving the welfare and creating public awareness of all the abandoned, neglected, and abused animals in Tehama County. They are skilled business and professional people who volunteer to provide strategy to the organization. Founding member and current President, Sharon Russell, a native Californian, raised in Tehama County on a cattle ranch, has steadfastly grown P.E.T.S. from its humble beginnings to an organization with a strong reputation and presence. She is the P.E.T.S. lead spokesperson and goodwill ambassador within the community. Her love for animals and her vision of no more homeless animals in Tehama County are the compelling forces for her tireless devotion. Vice President Ronnie Casey's prior work experience includes senior management positions in nursing, marketing, and business operations. She adores animals of all types and enjoys working with the Board members, the shelter, and the volunteers on innovative ways to help companion pets and increase community awareness of animal related matters. Treasurer since 2014 and third-generation Red Bluff native, Stephen Frey's experience with his family's accounting firm brings the financial expertise necessary to insure the fiscal and legal health of the organization. Detail oriented, he focuses strongly on P.E.T.S. financial planning and long-term stability. Nellie Barber, since retiring as Emergency Services Coordinator assigned to Tehama, Glenn, and Colusa Counties for the State of California Office of Emergency Services, has put her organizational skills to use as Board

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