This year we look forward to Spring even more enthusiastically than in years past. As we reflect upon the difficult challenges successfully met in the past few months we approach the onset of Spring with an appreciation of the value of all of God’s creation and a renewed sense of vigor and determination to improve the quality of life for our animal companions. A brutally harsh Winter delineated by above average snowfall, treacherous ice storms, hazardous road conditions, and consistently frigid and cloudy days significantly challenged our physical, mental and psychological capacities. Through it all, the Stark County Humane Society ( SCHS ) kept its focus and remained true to its mission.

In spite of the terrible weather conditions the SCHS remained open when many other institutions in Stark County closed. Thanks to the tireless and courageous efforts of our Staff and employees sick and abandoned animals were rescued from the streets. The SCHS participated in an inordinately large volume of complex civil and criminal litigation matters addressing abuse, neglect and outright cruelty. The successful prosecution of these matters facilitated the rescue and physical and emotional rehabilitation of hundreds of animals, leading to their relocation into a safe, loving environment. Eleven horses found suitable living conditions. More than one hundred rabbits were adopted into loving homes. Felines rescued and rehabilitated continue to experience almost 100 percent adoption within a matter of days, while their canine counterparts are cared for in a state of the art facility affording them clean and healthy living conditions and first rate veterinary care. 

Playing a big role in the success of SCHS’s efforts are the new buildings and renovated Shelter space resulting from the endeavors of a competent, experienced and extremely focused Planning Committee Chaired by Vice President Scott Hunter. With the advent of Spring the Committee is intensifying its efforts to ensure the SCHS continues to be in the forefront of animal rescue and care activities. Working with trusted architectural and engineering consultants, the Committee is researching the work done by other Animal Shelters and the structures built by firms and organizations with expertise concerning Veterinary Care Centers and Animal Hospitals to ensure effective and efficient modernization of the SCHS infrastructure.

At our Annual and Monthly Board Meetings on March 19 six of the Members were reelected to three year terms and the four Officers were elected to another one year term. This continuity affords the 18 Member Board the ability to continue to work seamlessly with the longtime, extremely competent and dedicated Executive Director, Jackie Godbey, to ensure wise stewardship of our financial resources; attention to the needs of employees, volunteers and visitors to the Shelter; and guarantee that the welfare of our furry friends with a view toward their adoption into loving homes is always our top priority. We will heighten our activities demonstrating that we respect the views and appreciate the absolutely essential support of the community by expanding our educational outreach; increasing participation in public events and modernizing our adoption centers. We will be seeking support at fundraisers such as “Tailz and Tulips” at the Massillon Eagles Post on April 5. As President, I consider it an honor and a privilege to work with so many at SCHS and a blessing to interact with so many of our friends and supporters in the community as we strive to...

"Speak for Those Who Cannot Speak for Themselves."