Pet Coalition of Ellis County: ‘Connecting the dots’
After learning that the SPCA of Texas is pulling out of its contract with Ellis County government this April, leaving residents and pets vulnerable, the Pet Coalition of Ellis County and dozens of concerned people recently met at the Waxahachie Chamber of Commerce offices.
“We’re here to work with the SPCA and the county to find a solution,” said Nicole Vonderheide, board president for the newly formed nonprofit. “Everybody is here as a volunteer, and everything we do, we do in a positive way.”
Since its formation in the fall, the coalition has sought to “connect the dots” between people, animals, and resources, while simultaneously raising awareness about local animal welfare issues.
“You don’t have to be the whole solution, just a part,” Vonderheide said of what the coalition is trying to bring together. “Our goal is to connect the dots from start to finish.”
Examples of what’s been accomplished to date include food and supply drives, advocacy efforts, a vaccine clinic and other events, transports, and medical treatment for animals in need. As the coalition moves forward, it continues to add to its network of resources, which now extends well beyond the county’s borders – all with an eye toward helping animals and their wellbeing.
“We know we can’t save them all, but we’re all going to do our best to help as many as we can,” said board member Carolyn Taylor, noting the coalition looks to facilitate vaccine clinics, “chip and clip” events, and spay/neuter efforts in the coming year.
“We’re going to find the hot spots (and) these things are going to help keep animals out of the shelters,” she said.
The coalition receives multiple requests for assistance every month, Vonderheide said, adding that volunteers are needed in all areas the coalition is seeking to address.
Key to meeting the nonprofit’s goals will be people signing up as volunteers for its “Coalition Crew.”
“We need to be able to reach people to tell them what we’re about and how they can help,” education and research committee chair Johnna Wallace said.
There’s something for everyone, with the volunteer opportunities including:
• advocacy and awareness
• education and research
• fundraising and events
• outreach
• preventative care
• social media and IT
A particular need is someone with grant writing experience.
“There’s opportunities for us to get money,” Taylor said of the grants that are available relating to animal welfare.
As noted during the meeting, the coalition’s intent is to “lead with kindness and act with purpose” while working in coordination with the different animal-related organizations and rescues already in service.
“We’re not negative,” Vonderheide said. “We work together.”
To stay informed, volunteer, donate, or otherwise support the Pet Coalition of Ellis County, visit its Facebook page or its website, where the volunteer application can also be found.
Written by Jo Ann Livingston/ITKE.
