June 30, 2009
First day of interviewing boys who hope to be accepted into the Loosen the Leash program. Like everything else, the prepared part was f-i-n-e, pretty good info gathering during the interview. The rest of what happens is the story. Today I found out that exactly no one has had a father that they lived with and ALL of the boys father's were currently or previously in jail. The happiest of the potential dog recipients had a visit from hisDad this week and he hadn't seen him since he was 7 years old--8 years ago! His Dad was recently released from prison and vows to be at every visitation from here on out. We will watch this unfold.
Another boy is writhing in the corner of his classroom when I enter, surrounded by his peers who are ready to do a restraint if needed. This kid is mad at EVERYBODY. Could it be because the woman he calls Mom and who had repeatedly and severely beaten him over the years SHOWED UP FOR A VISIT? He was pumped to finally confront her about his anger and pain. Problem, she was totally strung out for the visit on "who know what" and could only manage to lay down on a couch and zone out. And I am hoping a dog is going to make up for this???? I am desperately hoping as a matter of fact.
If you have no idea what I am talking about, see www.loosentheleash.com
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Cindy,
ReplyDeleteYou have a mission here and you know it. Please get to work and grow this thing. No one else will.
Everyone needs to hear on a regular basis how good this is for dogs, boys, and the community. Everyone also needs to know that, while we have the money to pay farmers not to grow wheat, and corporations to not hire Americans, as a society, we haven't provided for your life-giving mission. Its up to us as individuals to hear your call to action, recognize the need, and be a part of the solution. Its up to you to make a joyful noise.
housekeeping tips:
Get your links onto Facebook, LinkedIn and every pet site in town. Donors and admirers want to hear about you and you aren't talking loud enough.
Get a PayPal account on-line so people can send $20 everytime they get on-line.
Use photos, and use them again.
Find a dog lover who can write grants (try UMSL & LinkedIn).
Get a pet lover-writer to craft a 5 word slogan that captures the essence of your work, and asks for help. Slap a website and phone # on it and paste it everywhere.
Otherwise, take a day off and refresh. You've got a big job in front of you.
Jim