Loyalist Humane Society cheque presentation

From the left, Past President Chris Rogers, Guest Speaker Kathy McAlpine Terpstra, Dr. Andy Janikowski. 

Kathy McAlpine Terpstra was the guest speaker at Rotary this week.  She

Was introduced by Dr. Andy Janikowski.

Kathy grew up and attended school in Prince Edward County, then attended

The University of Western Ontario in London.  Kathy is well known locally for her work in physical fitness and healthy life style. She owns and operates her own business in the county. 

As part of her own personal growth path, two years ago Kathy attended a

Samurai Camp at which she was expected to set both a personal and a professional goal which were outside her comfort zone and then integrate those goals into her personal life.  She decided that she would personally spearhead the raising of $30,000 dollars for the Loyalist Humane Society!

Kathy provided an interesting and informative talk about the work with the Loyalist Humane Society (LHS) which is located on the west side of Picton, in Prince Edward County. The LHS is a non-profit charity organization.

Facts about the Humane Society:

 -- 200 cats are in care in the existing buildings, and currently only

Cats are housed there. The ultimate goal of LHS is to find a new and loving forever home for each animal.

-- approx 20 dogs are in foster care, and for further information re this

"foster" program Kathy recommended contacting Gail or Ann at the shelter

-- operated completely by volunteers

-- applications are welcomed from students who wish to add to their

volunteer hours

-- the society has a "no kill" policy except for humane reasons.  This

policy results in substantial costs, as cats can live very long lives

--  "seniors for seniors" is a wonderful program which matches older cats

with seniors who desire a pet.  A quiet, sedate cat which sits on a window sill or on a lap is much safer for a senior than is a kitten that loves to run and play, but would present a trip risk.  For seniors there are so many health benefits derived from the unconditional love and second heartbeat that a pet can provide in their home.

Costs are high for the Humane Society and include:

-- $2,400-$2,600 per month for food

-- $1,200 per month for liter

-- spay and  neuter costs

-- medical bills upkeep and shelter costs

The LHS currently has a specific need for assistance with the cost of food over the winter months.  Your support would be greatly appreciated. The Society is planning renovations to their buildings in the spring of 2012, and will be looking for volunteers with the skills to assist with the renovations.

Kathy was thanked by Past President Chris Rogers who commended her for

her tireless work and amazing success in her fund raising efforts on behalf of "those who cannot speak for themselves". Chris presented Kathy with a Cheque for $400.00 for the Humane Society.