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Project Description:
Earlier in 2023 the Humane Society of Weld County's Board of Directors voted to dissolve the organization located in Evans, Colorado, due to increasing numbers of stray and abandoned animals and not being financially sustainable. In 2022 alone, Weld County saw an increase of 23% in the number of animals it serves. Weld County has determined that it is unable to adequately address future needs due to the area's continuous growth, resulting in an increased pet population, declining revenues, and limitations posed by an aging facility. This dissolution has left a potential gap in services for unhoused and stray animals in Weld County. Weld County has transferred its remaining assets to the Larimer County Humane Society, which has fronted the burden of care for these animals in Northern Colorado, being the closest Humane Society in proximity to Weld County. Larimer County has been helping to support the Humane Society of Weld County for approximately one year to ensure we can continue to provide for the critical services needed to care for and rehome pets and animals in Northern Colorado.
This transfer of services and administration has occurred due to Larimer County acquiring a significant financial responsibility, which will also result in a cost savings for both agencies by reducing the administrative costs associated with operating the Humane Society of Weld County by consolidating assets and administrative oversight as part of the community organizations' merger, which will occur on October 2, 2023.
The Greeley Centennial Rotary of Weld County feels an obligation to help support the immediate needs of the newly formed Larimer-Weld Humane Society during its transition (see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qh8U-NglJ1M).
Describe the benefit to the community and/or improve lives:
These funds will primarily support the area of focus of Rotary International of Community Economic Development. Our Rotary club, with the support of District 5440, will help by providing essential veterinary supplies for this organization and will help it continue to fulfill its mission of finding a forever home for all 1,200 animals in its care this year. This small amount of assistance will also help serve the community and animals impacted by the consolidation of services.
Sustainability:
The Larimer County Humane Society and members of our club have established relationships within the Northern Colorado area over the years. Larimer County maintains a strong foundation and support from other community partners and donors to ensure that its services will continue in perpetuity.
Active Rotarian Involvement:
The Greeley Centennial Rotary Club has been active in learning from and collaborating with the Larimer-Weld Humane Society in the recent months to better understand the current needs, educate our club members, and begin to provide support to help the staff and animals.
Total Project Budget: $1,500.00
$1,500.00 from the Greeley Centennial Rotary and the 5440 District, consisting of $500.00 club dollars with matching funds of $1,000.00 from our district.
Publicity Plan:
Greeley Centennial Rotary will write an article as the project progresses updating both the club membership and District 5440. We will submit the article to the local newspapers in Greeley. Additionally, we will seek publication of the fund benefits through the Larimer-Weld Humane Society website. Twice annually, our World Community Service Committee reports to our club on project progress.
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