At times of disaster or financial strife it’s often our four legged, winged and water friends who are forgotten and left to fend for themselves. And it’s at those times organizations like Desert Paws and its staff and volunteers are most needed as they tirelessly work on behalf of animals.
On October 28th I had the honor of attending the “Desert Paws Courage in Action” celebration. I say honor, because to be in a room with people who give so much of their time and efforts for such a tremendously worthy cause, wanting nothing by way of recognition, is a humbling and inspirational experience.
However, the evening truly was a celebration giving that worthy recognition to those who have gone above and beyond in their support of animals in the categories of Volunteer or Employee in an Organization - Ann Woods and Yvonne Wall. Community Animal Hero; Lisa Roberts, Sam and Karen Esposito. Educator; Lina York. Veterinarian or Animal Medical Care Employee; Dr. Doug Kunz. Universal Animal Activist; Tanya Petrovna. Youth Animal Advocate; Reegan Ritchey, Daniela Rodriguez, Kaitly Garrison, Mia Torres and Lifetime Achievement; Jordin Kuecks.
Desert Paws founder and President, Doctor Lori Kirshner joined musician and performer extraordinaire, Barry Manilow, who stepped from that role to share with passionate eloquence, stories of each of the winners prior to presenting them with beautiful heart shaped trophies recognizing their love and care-filled efforts in taking action for animals.
I wish I could share each of their stories with you. One who saved horses after the devastation of hurricane Katrina. Others who have rescued birds, fish, kittens, puppies, older animals left to die. Children and young teens, who along with already hectic schedules of school, soccer and piano lessons, and just being kids, find time and love to care for animals in shelters and at shops who have pets waiting for adoption. They socialize the animals, walk them and spend their hard earned allowances to help support them.
A touching, often humorous and sweet video montage of animals, doing some adorable things, many with their people friends, was shown as Barry Manilow’s recording of “Can’t Smile Without You” played. The lyric was beautifully poignant; these animals can’t smile without us!
Desert Paws Vice President, Doctor Peter Spiegel, ended the evening with exciting news. “Desert Paws” is growing nationally, it’s name will change to “Advancing the Interests of Animals” and it’s facility will expand to offer more support for animals and education.
With national presence, and an expanded animal discovery and education center in the Coachella Valley, the organization will offer further enlightenment and entertainment like that of a childrens museum, enhancing their mission of teaching children and their families about animals and their environment. This expansion with it’s many activities and programs is sure to draw in both residents of and visitors to the Coachella Valley, from around the country and the world.
Congratulations to the winners, and thank you to all who do so much! Without human help, our animal friends are helpless. Please visit the Desert Paws site to learn more about how you can help with time and contributions.
Don’t forget to tune into Dr. Kirshner’s radio show which “promotes greater respect for and kindness toward all living creatures, from wild animals to pets to livestock animals”. And please check within your community to see what you can do to help.
Anyone who assists another in ways big and small should be applauded. But I’m pretty sure someone who lends a hand to creatures of land, sea or air, will have a special place in the great here after.