A southern Alberta cat rescue is highlighting the power of volunteers as it continues to care for vulnerable animals without government funding.
Last Chance Cat Ranch head of fundraising Michelle Hansen said the non-profit is run entirely by volunteers and supported through donations and fundraising efforts.
“We do not receive any funding from federal, provincial, or municipal governments,” Hansen said. “Our mission … is to help as many cats and kittens as possible by providing veterinary treatment, proper nutrition and consistent care.”
The rescue, which originally started in Coaldale, focuses on helping cats and kittens in distress — many of which arrive in poor health after experiencing abandonment, abuse, harsh weather or injury. Hansen said the cats are nursed back to health and the organization works to place them in safe, permanent homes.
She said the organization relies heavily on a network of volunteers who support everything from animal care and fostering to administrative work and fundraising, adding more help is always needed.
“We’re always looking for more volunteers,” Hansen said.
“It is very rewarding to see the difference that volunteers can make. You can’t always change a cat’s past, but you can definitely be part of helping rewrite their future.”
The call for support comes during National Volunteer Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the contributions of volunteers across the country.
Hansen credited the group’s volunteers for keeping operations running, noting their roles range from trapping and tracking cats to managing social media, maintaining facilities and organizing adoption efforts.
In addition to volunteering, the organization encourages community members to get involved by fostering or adopting cats, donating supplies or attending fundraising events such as bottle drives, bake sales and online auctions.
More information about volunteering, fostering or adopting is available through the organization’s website and social media channels.
