Highlights from the Flin Flon, Creighton and Area SPCA annual general meeting held last Tuesday, May 19:
Trials
President Debbie Hiebert spoke candidly on the trials and tribulations facing the volunteer organization.
“Some of us are feeling a bit burned out as we face the realization that the supply of unwanted cats and dogs is without end,” Hiebert told the meeting. “With this realization, we must recommit ourselves to doing what we are doing and learn new coping skills for the sake of the animals in need. As a charity we are needed in this community and I believe our work is respected and appreciated.”
Hiebert also expressed how fortunate the SPCA is for its volunteers and effective fundraising committee.
“Fundraising takes up a great deal of our time and effort, but it is the only way we can provide this service,” she said.
Awards
The SPCA presented awards to two dedicated animal lovers.
Barb Petrie accepted the Community Service Volunteer of the Year Award from vice-president Sherry Barnett and shelter manager Carmen Ward.
Brad McDuffee accepted the Shelter Volunteer of the Year Award for his service to animals in need.
Board changes
The board bid farewell to directors Lori Guitard and Cyr Geneau and welcomed new directors Rhonda Werbicki and Hollee Babcock.
Werbicki and Babcock join a board that also includes president Debbie Hiebert, vice-president Barnett, secretary Shannon Thompson, treasurer Marg Bragg and directors Tony Spooner, Kailyn Phillips, Donna Lowe, Stuart Rutherford and Erica Husberg.
Adoptions
Shelter manager Ward’s report noted an increase in adoptions in 2014.
Of 109 cats and dogs in care throughout 2014, 55 dogs were adopted along with 40 cats.
Eight animals were returned to their owners, while six had to be euthanized due either to sickness or aggression.
As of last week there were five dogs and 11 cats at the shelter.
Fiscal success
Treasurer Bragg reported that 2014 was a financially successful year with revenues exceeding the budget by nearly $13,000.
Bragg credited a near tripling of donations, the addition of the Fur Ball Social fundraiser and the collection of more adoption fees.
“The SPCA is fortunate to have loyal and generous supporters and we certainly want to build on this as we continue into the future,” Bragg told the meeting. “Donations in 2014 represented a significant portion of revenue earned.”
With 2014 marking the shelter’s second full of year operation, Bragg said the need for the facility is clear.
“As we move forward, the Flin Flon-Creighton SPCA will continue to work to ensure that animals in need will have a safe place to find shelter until a permanent home can be found,” she added.
