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Dennis sporting his 70's attire at our 30th Birthday Bash this Sept.
If you have visited our Adoption Center on a Tuesday or Saturday afternoon in the past eight months, then you have probably been greeted with a warm smile and kind words by this month’s featured volunteer, Dennis Price.
Dennis transferred to Lakeland from Denver in 2001. As an IT manager, he opened up a call center for what used to be MCI/ Worlcom and is now Verizon. He had been with the company for 15 years when he “got caught in a Management Reduction in Force in December 2008…. that ended that,” Dennis states. He’s currently still looking for work but there’s not much out there he’s finding, as I’m sure many individuals can relate.
After spending some time at home getting tired with the job hunt, Dennis decided that he needed to do something meaningful with his free time. Since attending our volunteer orientation in August of 2009, Dennis has donated over 200 hours to our organization. In his life outside of the SPCA, Dennis keeps busy by slowly restoring a red 1974 Corvette Convertible and caring for his own pets. He has two dogs (a Golden Retriever and a Mini Schnauzer), one bird (a mini Macaw) and a saltwater reef tank.
Dennis has been an amazing asset to our organization since he started. He excels at customer service. He has our staff singing praises about him for his positive attitude and sense of humor. Our staff describes Dennis as nothing short of “phenomenal”. He is “happy-go-lucky and always has a great attitude,” staff member Kim Grassano stated. They all concur that Dennis repeatedly “makes the customers SO happy.” He never points which way to go, he actually takes the time to make them feel welcome, and more importantly, leads the way and escorts them into the catteries, puppy room or kennel.
Dennis also has a wonderful sense of humor, and makes us laugh. Who doesn’t want to be around someone who makes them smile and feel GREAT?!? He knows just what to say as a greeter and tour guide.
On our busy Saturdays, he finds the time to make each guest’s visit very special; including the dozens of Girl Scout Troops he has provided tours for the last several months. In these instances, he is a humane educator and shares with them what we do and how they can help homeless pets.
Our greeters, including fellow volunteer Stephanie Principato, are the first impression of our facility when they are here. They both know how to spread that great feeling and make each individual that walks into our doors feel extremely welcome, and for that we are very grateful.
Dennis says he loves being around our staff and, of course, the animals. He is honored that he was chosen as this month’s recipient and says “volunteering at the SPCA is probably the best idea I’ve had in a long time.”
I asked Dennis to share some of his most memorable experiences while volunteering with us during these past eight months. He fondly remembers the couple with the 19 year-old blind dog. They brought him in to find him a friend and moments like these “really touch my heart,” he says.
Meeting such a diverse group of people that walk through our doors, and hearing their stories about their pets have all had a profound effect on Dennis. “I think I’m a better person having met all of them.” He also adds, “I love it when the dogs or cats that I’ve become attached to finally get good homes. Now that’s rewarding. When that happens, if I could…. I would do a happy dance.”
Dennis stated that it is nice to work with such dedicated people. “I can’t say enough good about the staff; they are a true joy to be around”. He says that we do more good for him than he does for us.
Well, Dennis, this last comment alone shows us even further why you so deserve this recognition. You are such a generous, inspirational and kind-hearted individual. We are so appreciative that you keep coming back to us each week!
THANK YOU Dennis, and all of our amazing volunteers, for what you give to this organization. We couldn’t possibly find all of the happy homes we do without you being here.
To spread good cheer like Dennis and our other volunteer team members, please apply online at www.lovemyspca.com or call Alane at 863.646.7722 x 112.
Volunteering at the Auction for the Animals
How did we ever survive without Sherrie? Since her start with us in May of 2009, Sherrie Reits has logged almost 200 hours! In one way or another, Sherrie has been involved with us since the mid 90’s when she adopted her first dog from us. She then worked at the Lakeland Ledger where she created an ad space where local businesses “sponsored” SPCA pets. Then came the blogging…then came the official volunteering earlier this year. Sherrie decided to volunteer on-site for many reasons, but mainly because her daughter Katie wants to be veterinarian and she thought this would be a good experience toward that goal. Being only 13, she needed a parent to be an active volunteer as well. Once they got started, Sherrie says, “it’s been a whirlwind of non-stop activities ever since.”
Sherrie is eager to learn every aspect about the SPCA. She helps us with everything from designing and sewing dog donation coats, to writing grants, to walking our dogs. Sherrie is a great leader and is willing to dive right into things. She loads the SPCA van with supplies and animals and transports our dogs safely to events, giving up the majority of her Saturday to find animals homes. Her work ethic and generosity are evidenced by the fact that she is a mother of four (ages 13-20), mom to a special needs (blind and deaf) Border Collie named Little Bear, works full time as an Executive Assistant at Driver Training Associates, yet somehow finds the time to volunteer over 30 hours a month for us.
She helped with the fashion show at our 30th birthday bash in September, and helped with her first Auction for the Animals this November. She says, “the event impressed me beyond words. It was so well coordinated and the number of people to turn-out for the event was incredible.” Sherrie has served as a FEMA inspector, done some traveling and held some great jobs, but says “being a volunteer for the SPCA ranks right up there among one of the most rewarding experiences I have known. Whether it’s getting dirty in the dog kennels or attending a country club event makes no difference. Learning to teach the dogs to be more obedient or spending cuddling time with the cats; equally gratifying. Sewing costumes or baking cakes, placing signs or standing in the heat – all the same.” What is Sherrie’s favorite thing about volunteering for the SPCA? “When I can help an animal get adopted,” she states. She adds, “When I’m at an off-site event and we adopt out an animal, it’s such a wonderful feeling to know that animal is going to a loving, caring family. To be part of the adoption screening process; to be an advocate for that animal, is a very special feeling.” A few months ago, Sherrie adopted Honey out to a loving family who drove from Pasco County to the off-site event Sherrie was running. Their current pet’s vet records could not be verified, and the family could not get to the adoption center before 5:00 p.m.. Sherrie went out of her way the following Monday evening by meeting the family half way to deliver Honey, once the records were verified. She was nothing but happy to help.
Sherrie’s leadership, initiative, dependability and work ethic are just a few of the dozens of reasons she was chosen this month. Thank you for the generous time you have given for the animals, Sherrie…. we adore you!
“I am very honored to be designated “Volunteer of the Month”, Sherrie stated. “If I had one valuable piece of advice to give, it would be this: VOLUNTEER for the SPCA! You’ll be very glad you did!”
To find out more about volunteering, please visit us online at www.lovemyspca.com or call: 863/646-7722
This month we would like to give long overdue attention to Dr. Timothy Knight, an altruistic veterinarian who has donated his time to us every Wednesday since 2002. His years of service translate to almost 2,500 hours aiding animals!
A member of our medical staff states that “he has given his Wednesday mornings up to help our mission of low cost spay and neuter to help decrease pet overpopulation. He has given many suggestions and ideas for improvement for the medical center and has recruited other staff members for us.” On top of that, he has been a long term supporter of the SPCA by attending fundraising events such as the Auction for the Animals.
Doctor Knight is admired by all who work with him. Our technicians and staff who work directly with Dr. Knight describe him as very knowledgeable and a great team player. He is a talented surgeon and very hard working.
“If there is ever even a remote question, he goes out of his way to find out the underlying issue,” Veterinarian Technician Cassie Bunn stated. Dr. Knight thinks that all of the changes he has seen at the SPCA over the years, especially lately, have been “great.” He stated that he “would like to see the SPCA eventually develop into a specialty care clinic and be open 24 hours.”
Outside of volunteering his time for us every Wednesday, Dr. Knight is one busy man! He owns and operates North County Dermatology Clinic on Marcum Road, and has practiced dermatology for over 30 years. Although he originally obtained a degree in human medicine, he earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Degree from Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1999.
Dr. Knight is recognized as a Diplomat of the American Board of Dermatology, National Board of Medical Examiners, and National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. He has received many academic honors in the veterinary field, as well as in dermatology. Outside of working he is happily married and has two, four-legged feline children.
When asked what he most enjoys about volunteering for us over the years, he said that he “enjoys helping animals find homes. Overpopulation and homeless pets are such an extensive problem in our community, to alleviate some of that issue gives me great satisfaction.”
We want to all say thank you so very much for sharing your time and expertise with us, Dr. Knight. We are grateful for your years of service to the animals and hope you are with us for many more to come!
To find out more about volunteering in the Medical Center or many other areas at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, please visit us online at www.lovemyspca.com or call 863/646-7722.
While it can prove difficult to choose just one volunteer who stands out in an organization which has so many amazing individuals, this month’s honoree has been repeatedly raved about by several members of our adoption center staff. Team member Joe Melvin recommended Bill for his work ethic and ability to pitch in with whatever needs to be done. More importantly, “Bill genuinely cares about the animals,” Joe stated. Staff member Gail Mae Hart says she “would be lost without him!” She describes Bill as not only dependable and great with customers, but as an individual that takes initiative. “He shows great leadership with the new volunteers he works with.”
Bill enjoying his time in the puppy room
So, what brought this amazing individual to us you ask? Well, we owe our thanks to a stray kitty Bill took in that his family later named “Distance.” After feeding her for some time, she showed up with a broken leg one day. Bill brought her in to the SPCA Medical Center. He took a tour of our campus; he was very impressed with our entire facility and friendly staff. He says that he asked so many questions, staff suggested that he volunteer for us. And the rest is history!
Bill is kind and welcoming to all he comes in contact with. He is eager to learn every aspect about the SPCA. That shows; in less than just three months of service, Bill has already donated 120 hours of his time. Bill states “working as a volunteer has been more rewarding than I could have ever imagined. Doing my small part to help the animals find new homes really makes me feel like I have accomplished something important at the end of each day. “Bill adds, “I knew I would enjoy working with the animals, but what I didn’t realize was how much I would enjoy working with the staff. Everyone has been very helpful, encouraging, and patient. It is great to be a part of such a special organization, and a real honor to be chosen as volunteer of the month.”
Bill teaches a motorcycle safety class most weekends. He has one son named Travis, and has been married for 30 years to a wonderful woman named Lauren, who we are now also fortunate to call a volunteer as well! Bill says “we have a lot of fun when we get to work together at the SPCA. It’s our version of going out on a date.”
Bill, your great attitude, leadership and cheerful personality are just a few of the many reasons you were chosen this month. Thank you for your warmth and generosity, and for being there for our staff whom does not always have the easiest of jobs. We APPRECIATE you more than you know!
To find out more about volunteering, please visit us online at www.lovemyspca.com or call: 863/646-7722
Rachel is August's Volunteer of the Month!
Chances are if you have noticed an exceptionally amazing picture of a pet on our Web site it was taken by Rachel Cooper. This month, we would like to recognize her continued quality work and commitment to the cause.
Rachel joined our team in February of this year. She has always loved being around animals and had wanted to get more involved in animal care/protection but was hesitant to get involved at first.
“I knew that being involved in any rescue-type organization comes with a lot of emotional stress so I was hesitant.”
Being involved in a serious accident about a year ago really made her think about lost opportunities. So, she decided to find the nearest animal welfare organization to help. Thankfully, it was ours!
Rachel’s pets include three freshwater fish, three hermit crabs (one of them is a rescue!) and the “apple of her eye”, Lucie, her six-year old Chihuahua. Originally, Rachel reigns from New England. She has lived in Lakeland for about a year and a half now, moving here from Clearwater with her boyfriend for his work. She just graduated St. Petersburg College with her A.A. with High Honors this past May.
Rachel says, “the more time I spend at the SPCA, the more I feel that my path in life must be centered around the care and protection of animals - I’m just not sure how I’ll achieve that yet, but I’m sure I’ll work it out!”
Besides taking breathtaking pictures twice a week, Rachel also helps the SPCA as a humane educator and an adoption assistant. She is kind, dependable and always has a wonderful attitude. She makes a great impression on anyone she meets.
Rachel loves getting to be around animals all the time and photographing our dogs to help them find their forever homes.
This is just one of the many great pictures that Rachel has taken of the SPCA adoptables.
“There is no animal more appreciative of companionship and love than a shelter dog,” Rachel said. “I love that I am able to make their lives just a little brighter by spending time with them, playing with them and letting them know that they are loved.”
THANK YOU, Rachel, for showing them that much deserved love and attention, and showcasing them in such a beautiful way. We know that your photos are bringing in new families to adopt every day!
To find out how to get involved making a difference in the lives of animals, like Rachel, please visit lovemyspca.com day!
Our newest program, Ani-meals, made its debut in June by delivering pet food to seniors in need. We received the most amazing thank you letter last week from a Meals on Wheels client we are helping that we would like to share with you! It was so wonderful to meet this client and her beautiful kitty last month, to hear her story and to see firsthand the lives we are touching. Thank you all for your support and donations; they allow us to assist SO many deserving pets, and people, in our community!
Letter that meant so much to us!
We are happy to announce Tina Graveson as the Volunteer of the Month for June. Tina, a former Pennsylvania resident and X-ray technician of 17 years, moved to Lakeland last summer. She applied to volunteer at the SPCA since she was unable to find a job and decided to take advantage of the time by doing something she wanted to do, instead of something she had to do. She began walking dogs in January and has not put down her tennis shoes since!
She is a dedicated and caring individual, rarely missing her scheduled Tuesday & Thursday morning shifts to walk the dogs.
When I asked her what she liked the best about volunteering for the SPCA, Tina said “I always have a good day at the SPCA. The dogs let me know as soon as I walk in how glad they are to see me. The ultimate is matching a dog with that perfect owner.” Tina has branched out and tried off-site other volunteer positions such as fostering dogs in need, and assisting at off-site locations such as the SPCA Adoption & Pet Boutique at Lakeside Village. She has taken on the task of training several new volunteers for the dog walking position, which is an invaluable asset to our organization, staff and canines.
Her dependability, great attitude and commitment are just a few of the reasons Tina was chosen. To date, she has given over 90 hours of her time, not including the dozens of hours spent in her home caring for foster dogs, including a former heartworm positive dog named Diamond, who is soon to become a forever member of the Graveson family!
Tina is married and has two children, three including their Boston terrier named Ruby.
Tina says, “I started volunteering for something to get me out of the house with no expectations. As it turns out, I look forward to my time with the dogs and can’t imagine not being there.”
Tina, your kindness, warm smile and commitment to the cause do not go unnoticed. We are so fortunate to have you at the SPCA!
To find out how to get involved making a difference in the lives of animals, like Tina, please visit www.lovemyspca.com today!!!
Susan, one of our winners, with her beautiful, completed rain barrel
There have been many wonderful changes to the SPCA campus. One of those is the landscaping around our Medical Center, Adoption Center and new Education and Administration Center. This completed beautification project has increased our water usage greatly. To help lessen the demand on our water supply, we have recently acquired six 55-gallon rain barrels with the help of an anonymous donor. Placing these rain barrels underneath our gutters can provide a barrel full of rain water in a downpour, which in turn can be used in practical ways such as watering our new Florida-friendly plants and flowers!
Instead of placing these plain, “boring”, blue barrels out right away, we held a contest among our volunteers to decorate them with the SPCA logo and mission in mind. Over 20 designs were submitted, and on May 18 the Board of Directors voted on those submitted by: Lena Eldridge, Susan Schenk, Karen Mitchell and Emily Hendricks (she had 3 winning designs!). Currently, the winning volunteers are painting the barrels and they will soon be collecting rain drops and out for all of our visitors to see. We would like to say a special thank you to all of those who took the time to submit a design for us, and congratulations to our winners!
Crystal and Lannie at Lakeside Village
The SPCA is proud to announce Crystal Grange as the Volunteer of the Month for May! Crystal, a Tampa resident, began assisting at SPCA’s Brandon off-site adoptions in July 2008. Since then, she has moved on to helping regularly at our Lakeside Village store and taking on additional leadership roles we have needed, such as running events and processing adoptions. She is such a dedicated and hard working individual, rarely missing a Saturday opportunity to help animals find forever homes. Since July, Crystal has donated over 135 hours for the SPCA.
SPCA Board Member, and off-site committee member, Denise Gross says, “Crystal is a very giving and kind person. She is very knowledgeable about animals. She will do anything that we ask her to do. We appreciate her so much.” Board Member Ann Harman adds, “She is very committed to the welfare of the pets and finding the best home through each adoption opportunity. She is always willing to take on any tasks with a smile and is calm under pressure.”
Crystal is married, and is a proud pet mom of two cats and three dogs (two of her dogs were found as strays and one came from the SPCA of Tampa Bay). She is about to obtain an MBA in August from USF and hopes to one day soon work for a non profit organization in animal welfare.
When asked what made Crystal choose the SPCA, she replied, “I have always had a passion for helping animals. I always took in strays and found them homes (or kept them). I just though it was about time to step up and do more since I am nearing the end of my school career and had more free time on my hands to do some of the things I enjoy. I love working with animals and helping them, it is very rewarding.”
By the way, I noticed that Crystal is even helping us spread the word while she sends emails; her signature includes: “Support the SPCA or find a new friend at www.lovemyspca.com”
Thank you Crystal, for all you do for the animals- we are lucky to have amazing volunteers, like YOU, on our team!
