Spring, October 2016
Grant picked as ‘Volunteer of the Year’ finalist
Rain or shine, no matter what the Despite a physical disability Grant is task, SPCA volunteer Grant McLeod a dedicated volunteer who does not is happy to do it. allow himself to be limited. Grant has volunteered at SPCA “He takes so much pressure off our Hastings and Districts for 12 years staff, he comes in every day and does and this dedication has seen him a job that’s not always pleasant,” Mike selected as a finalist for the Purina said. “We can rely on him, we know SPCA ‘Volunteer of the Year’ award. he’s going to be here rain, hail or snow.” The award aims to recognise the efforts of the volunteers, without whom Grant makes a huge impact on the the SPCA could not function. centre’s culture and his enthusiasm is particularly contagious, Mike said. Grant said he was “gobsmacked” at making the shortlist. The Shelter is always looking for more people to volunteer, especially in the Five days a week he spends three morning to prepare the Shelter and hours cleaning litter trays, kennels and animals for visitors. floors to ensure the centre is spotless for both resident animals, and the Grant encourages anyone with spare visitors meeting prospective pets. time to volunteer and says it gives him a sense of satisfaction and confidence. He grew up on a farm in Fernhill and always liked animals so the SPCA The winners of the award were was a good fit. recently announced as Cathy and Eddie from SPCA Thames. We wish “You don’t always need to be paid to all of our volunteers could be awarded work, for me it’s the satisfaction of the ‘Volunteer of the Year’ title, as to doing a good job,” he said. us and the animals in our care, they Each day he pays for a taxi to the all are! Shelter, braves the weather to make Finalist for Volunteer of the Year Grant McLeod sure the cleaning is done, all without and pup Vanilla at SPCA Hastings and Districts If you’d like to know more about volunteering, call the Shelter team complaint. on 06 878 8733 or visit spcahastings.org.nz Mike Georgantis, Shelter Manager, said Grant is a role Story courtesy of Dominion Post model to everyone at the shelter.
2017 Calendars
Thanks to Lupin Bay Photography and our wonderful sponsors, we will have 2017 calendars available very shortly. Keep an eye on our Facebook page to find out how to get yours. Here’s a ‘behind the scenes’ shot of our beautiful ‘Mama’ having her moment as a model.
Reflect... “We are fel l ow passen gers on the same pl anet, and we are al l equal l y responsible for the happiness and the wel l-bein g of the worl d in which we happen to live.” H e n d r i k Va n L o o n
Hastings & Districts SPCA is proud to partner with radio sponsor The Hits Hawke’s Bay 89.5fm