According to Webster’s dictionary, the definition of the word volunteer is “a person who performs a service willingly and without pay.” Where Foothills Humane Society in Columbus is concerned, there are many active volunteers who fulfill much needed duties on a regular basis. Words could never adequately express our appreciation for all of them.

Yet when bringing these charitable individuals to mind, two women specifically stand out beyond that definition. Cristina Casellato of Mill Spring offered her help immediately upon relocating to Polk County even before fully settling into her new digs. In addition to fostering many an animal, without fail on a weekly basis she exercises shelter dogs while enforcing a disciplined training routine.

Over the last few years, Cristina has provided financial aid when specific needs arose but funding was lacking. And most recently, she paid for an aluminum awning, offering badly needed shade and shelter from extreme weather for dogs housed in outdoor runs.

Listing all the ways Cristina offers assistance to benefit animals in our care is not practical, but suffice it to say she has stepped up to nurture and comfort many.

Shirley Johnson of Saluda often gives her financial support as well and daily joins Cristina during exercise/training routines. Her artistic talents design flyers pertinent to spreading word of adoption events both on and off site in addition to providing basic information about the shelter and its services. Shirley also composes our new email Newsletter Blast, which publishes newsworthy information while highlighting one dog and cat. Her slide show photos and videos have brought more attention to specific animals resulting in increased adoptions.

With pure heart intention, both women show no boundaries for ways in which they support the shelter’s mission. My personal wish is that each reader shall be fortunate in their lifetime to work beside such selfless individuals who both are an enormous asset to our community and impressive role models for those of a younger generation. Bravo ladies!

– article submitted by Sharon Rose