Shared Success

Caring and finding well-matched adopters for homeless animals is rewarding and sometimes difficult. I have the utmost respect and admiration for my co-workers who are on the front lines of carrying out that mission. Every day they work hard to improve the lives of cats and dogs that, at best, have been surrendered to a shelter because their guardians can no longer care for them. Sometimes the situation is much worse, and our staff is faced with the harsh reality of what humans inflict on these vulnerable creatures.

But the effort pays off when a perfect match is made and an animal leaves for a better life with a loving and committed person or family. We all experience the joy and satisfaction of knowing that another deserving animal has found a good home—there is no better feeling. I am extremely proud to say that we will likely achieve at least 820 adoptions this year, an all-time high. (Prior to this, the most animals we had found homes for was 801 in 2009 when we had 80 percent more space and 25 percent more staff—before the 2010 fire.)

We have learned to be more efficient out of necessity, which has no doubt contributed to our ability to help so many animals this year. But there is another important reason for our success: you.

Because of the support we get from donors and volunteers, we have been able to help more animals this year than ever before.  From people who tirelessly walk dogs, socialize cats, provide foster care, clean, and help with administrative work, to those who send us $1 in the mail or donate much greater amounts, you all contribute to our capacity to serve animals in our community, and to do it well.

The truth is, we would not exist without your partnership. It is hard to express in words how much it means to us and to the animals—to say that we are deeply grateful seems somehow inadequate. But every time an animal in need leaves here healthy, happy, and headed for a new home, we share that success with you.

We look forward to many more shared successes for homeless animals in 2013. From all of us at the Berkeley-East Bay Humane Society to all of you, thank you, friends.

For the animals,

Corinne