Each year we host an annual meeting and celebration to recap the prior year, discuss future plans and just have fun being together. We had our event for the first time since Covid and it was a bit different, but so wonderful. Every attendee had to provide proof of vaccination in advance, wear a mask in all the public areas of the venue and socially distance at the tables. Once we were in our private room however we felt comfortable enough to remove our masks to eat and speak and mingle. So you will see some photos masked and some unmasked! We had quite a few new team members and facility partners and that made it even more enjoyable getting to know each other. We were honored to have Annie Peters, the President and CEO of Pet Partners with us this year and she spoke so highly of our program and discussed their national plans going forward. Annie spent the day before shadowing our teams and reflected on the impact she observed of how we made a difference in our community.
At past events, we presented our Spirit Award to one volunteer who had gone above and beyond. But this year four women received the award. Our remarkable Board of Directors, Diane, Kristy, Leslie and Susan, kept everything going for two years while it was our most challenging time. Without their help and support our program could have ceased to exist. They also pitched up when we needed financial help and created Facebook campaigns and helped us match donations.
We were also especially pleased to recognize several of our community partners who we consider our “village.” Thanks to Impetus Training Center, The Wagging Tail Pet Supplies, Dogtopia South Summerlin and Southern Hills Hospital for providing space, resources and encouragement for two years and for continuing to do so.
The greatest surprise for me however was the presentation of the most exquisite portrait of my Benny as he was recognized for eleven years of volunteerism. It is not easy to surprise me! They knew the way to my heart was to honor my precious boy and his huge heart as a therapy dog for eleven years.
We have big plans for when we can fully resume our work and until then we take it day by day.