Maggie is the new forever name of who was once called #73. She was rescued a few months back, a story you may remember where, in less than two days, we adopted or had in foster care, over 70 dogs. Susan adopted #73 and shares this, “Her name is Maggie, and she has added so much to our family.  We already had two other furbabies and they have all bonded together beautifully.” Susan is a local artist, SH Morris Art, who has so kindly donated a gift certificate that our overall Mutt Strut winner will take home. Her work is beautiful. She is a colored pencil artist out of Lewisville, NC who specializes in pet portraits. Make sure to register for Mutt Strut, stop by and see Susan at the vendor market, and say hi to #73, Maggie!

Rick has been a longtime donor, volunteer, community advocate, and friend of Forsyth Humane Society and UnChain Winston. If FHS has a problem, Rick can fix it, and he is always willing to lend a hand or utilize his talents. When we asked Rick about his dedication to FHS, he said, “It’s a good organization with good people who commit to reaching goals.”  In addition to volunteering, Rick is a monthly supporter of FHS. “It’s easier than donating in one shot, and as a retired person, it’s easier to blend in with your pay schedule,” Rick said. “Monthly giving is also better for the humane society because they are supported year-round.”  Rick has been an FHS volunteer since 2014. “The skills I’ve accumulated in my lifetime, I can use here. If you are retired, it gets you out of the house to volunteer,” said Rick.  Rick comes from an extended family who believes in lending a hand and supporting their community. “It’s generational!” Rick said. “My mom and her mom always volunteered. My family of volunteers goes back to the revolutionary war. It’s something we do.” Rick also mentioned he loves the companionship of volunteering with FHS. “We’ve always had dogs, and now that we’re in NC living in a condo, it’s not dog appropriate. We’re not little dog people, we are Pitbull mix people. Coming to FHS, I get my dog fix.”  Rick and his friends at UnChain Winston recently came to FHS to build cat trees and beds for our shelter animals. “I love working with UnChain Winston. People are so grateful for the service we provide for their pets.” UnChain Winston provides free fencing for tethered dogs and other resources to our community. When Rick reflects on all the families he has helped, he says, “The moment when the dog realizes they can run and aren’t hooked up, the dogs go nuts and have fun. It’s amazing to see.” 

Kate Michalek has been an FHS supporter since 2014 when she started as a volunteer at the Miller Street location. “I love animals and thought about volunteering every time I passed FHS,” says Kate. “One day I decided to stop in to see how I could help. I fell in love with the animals, the people, and the mission.” Kate continued volunteering when FHS moved to its Country Club location. “Working with the animals and customers is such a rewarding experience,” she explains. “Connecting an animal with the right family and their forever home brings such joy.” The Michalek’s have adopted three pets from FHS, cats Noche and Murray, and Shih Tzu Martha, a recent winner in the pet calendar contest. “We have also adopted animals from AARF and the county shelter. Rescues are so full of love and appreciation. They know you are giving them a second chance.” Photo Left: Martha & Baxter In 2016, Kate joined the board of directors where she served for six years. “Animal welfare is a rewarding but emotionally challenging business. FHS has faced many changes and challenges during my time on the board. I cannot say enough about the staff and leadership at FHS. They face every issue with resolve, focus and grace. I am proud to know them and work with them.” Two years ago, Kate joined the Legacy Society. “As a volunteer and board member I have witnessed all aspects of FHS and how animal welfare benefits our community. I deeply believe in the FHS mission to support the bonds between animals and humans. FHS programs foster compassion and understanding in our community – two things I think most people would agree we need more of right now. FHS will always be a part of me. Joining the Legacy Society ensures my support for the FHS mission now and in the future.” Photo left: Murray

Stock giving is a powerful way to supersize your gift to Forsyth Humane Society before the end of the year to optimize your tax benefits. There are three great reasons for giving a gift of stock to FHS: If you have questions about making a gift of stock, please reach out to Carrie DuPre at 336.955.1740 or email cdupre@forsythhumane.org