“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success.” Henry Ford.

“One finger cannot lift a pebble.” Hopi proverb.

“No individual can win a game by himself.” Pelé

This morning I was privileged to co-host a relaunch of the Suncoast Animal Alliance. Our mission is to promote networking by discussing how we can help each other to help the animals in our community.

When I first began volunteering in Manatee County, all of the rescues and shelters operated independently, like neighbors who waved at each other occasionally but didn’t know each other’s names.

Sue and I were working together at Animal Network, a group she had started back in the days when the county didn’t even have a single dog park. AN’s first mission was to secure that park. Today, GT Bray dog park is named after Sue’s counterpart, Laurie Crawford who championed with her for dog parks.

Over the years, Sue and I drifted between and betwixt the various rescue organizations, collaborating with this one, volunteering for the other. Eventually, we created the Suncoast Animal Alliance. Our goal was to get the different rescues and shelters in our area to work together. Just as we were making progress, Covid happened.

Fast forward to today.

Rick Yokum, the Executive Director of The Humane Society of Manatee County hosted the meeting. Also in attendance was his Shelter Director and Clinic Director.

The turnout was spectacular. Executive Directors, Operation Managers, Shelter Directors, Outreach Specialists, Foster Coordinators and a Pet Retention and Admission Manager.

Each of the organizations have impressive track records of success. Each of the organizations know that there is still so much work to be done. Everybody in the room agreed that we will all be better together!

A quick list of attendees will allow you to understand why this is SO exciting…

Bishop SPCA

Cat Depot

Humane Society of Lakewood Ranch

Humane Society of Manatee County

Humane Society of Sarasota County

Manatee County Animal Welfare

Nate’s Honor Rescue

Sue spoke for All Kitty Korner and Gulf Shore Animal League

All of these groups are doing great things now…one has a brand new training program for fosters, one has a burgeoning Pet Retention Program, most had some form of TNR for cats. (Trap/Neuter/Release). Several groups have upcoming adoption events. In short, everyone attending had something they can offer, can share, can collaborate on.

We will meet again in April. In the meantime, Sue will email everyone contacts information for each other — Let the Collaboration Begin!

BTW: I’m putting myself in charge of designing 2 booths at the upcoming Adoption event in May. Last year, 4000 people attended…my idea is to have an area for people to discover how they can get involved. One booth for trappers and one for fosters. The need for both cannot be overstated. More on this as it unfolds…

As you can tell, I am pumped. The positive energy, the dedication of the attendees, the selflessness of the people I met today…. It all combined to give my spirit a boost!

On a final note…my empty catio was filled today. Sue came in with 2 sister cats who were living outdoors but are friendly. There was no place for them to land until Sunday. Luckily, I had room and the two girls are settling in. As you see from her pinned back ears, the transition may take time. I’m sure it’s very confusing to be thrust into a new environment. I hope to have them feeling secure and purring soon…..