GBHS strives to help animals with different events
The Golden Belt Humane Society is dedicated to animal welfare that provides housing and medical care to unwanted and stray animals throughout Barton County by hosting many events throughout the year to raise fund for these animals.
Its mission includes the placement of these animals by adoption or by networking with rescues. Euthanasia is only used for animals that are not adoptable for reasons of aggressions, sickness and injury.
“Each month, a group of board member’s/fundraiser committee members set up at a local farm and home store to help promote the animals for adoption,” Golden Belt Humane Society Director Heather Acheson said.
According to the GBHS, this event has been a huge success and it is ever growing with several people attending from other cities in Kansas.
The success of the GBHS doesn’t stop there. With dedicated volunteers and committee members, additional fundraisers throughout the year have helped spay/neuter the cats and dogs that filter through the shelter as well as several medical treatments.
“Our staff, volunteers and board members participate in community events such as holiday parades, After Harvest Festivals, car shows, and other community summer events. Here we are able to spread our mission and the importance of animal welfare and promote adopting shelter pets,” Acheson said.
The GBHS also participates in providing dogs to an outreach training program called the Second Chance Rescue Obedience Program.
Dogs are paired with inmates at the Larned Correctional Facility in Larned. They spend 3-5 months learning basic obedience and once they complete the program, the dogs are then placed for adoption. This program was established in the late 90’s and has been a huge success with dogs adopted all over the United States.
“Through these events, the community has seen the changes that have allowed us to start partnering with organizations to establish a work program with individuals with special needs, tours and story times for day-cares and elementary schools about animal welfare,” Acheson said. “GBHS facilitates and assist with community service projects with Girl and Boy Scouts clubs, and continues a working history with our local trustees from the county jail.
Each year, the Great Bend High School participates in the community for a service project. Five to ten students accompanied by an advisor also participate at the shelter with different daily cleaning routines as well as yard work. Other school districts have participated in giving back by donating their time by bathing, walking and socializing the shelter pets.
“Without this magnitude of the community and beyond involvement, none of this would be possible,” Acheson said. “The GBHS is thoroughly grateful for each and every person who has continuously supported our cause throughout the years.”
Upcoming Events:
June 10 – At the Nextech Store located at 3700 10th St. from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – mini adoption event with store promotions and prizes
June 24 – At the Golden Belt Humane Society – There will be a garage sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. – proceeds applied to equipment, supplies and medical care of the animals
July 15th – At the Ellinwood After Harvest Festival – Parade, adoptions and food at the City Park
Donations to the Shelter:
Those who would like to make a donation to the shelter can donate several ways.
• Stop in to the shelter to make a donation via cash, check or credit card
• Use credit card over the phone
• Send through PayPal using the email address directorgoldenbelt@gmail.com
• Mail a donation to P.O. Box 1653 Great Bend KS 67530
