BBB of Miami Valley Torch Bearer Blog: Three simple ways you can help the animals

By Brian Weltge, The Humane Society of Greater Dayton

At the BBB Accredited Charity, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, they match thousands of animals with loving forever homes every year. However, there are still plenty of animal lovers out there who may not be able to adopt, but want to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Of course, adoption is a great answer because it places amazing animals into forever homes. But if you don’t have the time or space to commit to adopting a pet, there are still other ways you can help the animals right here in the Miami Valley. Here are just a few options available…

1.     Volunteer Your Time

Whether you want to do paperwork, take photos of pets, plan events or take them for a walk, there are so many options for volunteers. Each hour you put in, you dramatically help our animals and the nonprofit organization immensely.

For instance, no matter your interests, there is something available for you to do at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. There is training involved within the volunteer program, but following this training, you are able to pick and choose what you do at the shelter and can set up your own schedule of hours you want to help. Plus, you can start volunteering as young as 10-year-old (with a parent or guardian). For more information on how to volunteer, visit www.hsdayton.org/volunteer or contact our volunteer coordinator at jrettig@hsdayton.org.  

2.     Become a Foster

Adopting an animal can be quite a commitment, but if you would like to have animals in your home for a shorter period of time then fostering may be a good option for you. There is in a constant need for fosters to provide short-term care for animals that are either too young or are rehabilitating from an illness before they are able to be placed in an adoption program. Instead of committing years to one animal, by being a foster you can give an animal the love and care they need until they are ready for adoption. It is a rewarding and crucial part to any shelter. Plus, many organizations provide you will all the supplies and training you need and work with your schedule so that you can foster as little or as much as you want.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, you can sign up today for the Humane Society of Greater Dayton’s Foster Roster. Simply, email foster@hsdayton.org.

3.     Donate Supplies/Money

Many 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations rely solely on the donations of individuals, companies and grants to run 100% of their programs and services. And, in many cases, all money donated stays directly in the Miami Valley.

You can donate to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton by visiting www.hsdayton.org/donate or by calling (937) 262-5920. If you would like to donate supplies, you can drop them off at their main shelter at 1661 Nicholas Road in Dayton.

This year, we encourage you all to get involved and make an impact --Together, we are all saving lives!