Rescue Village’s Impact
The doors of Rescue Village reopened in July 2021, and more than 5,000 mask-wearing visitors came through the doors to adopt 1,486 dogs, cats, domesticated barn animals, and small creatures. Just some of these animals included 435 stray cats, 345 owner-surrendered cats, and 151 owner-surrendered dogs, all of whom found new homes. Rescue Village’s foster network also took in an additional 590 animals, helping reduce the stress of shelter life for animals waiting for their new families.
2023 surgeries were performed on Rescue Village’s animals and community cats, along with more than 10,000 vaccinations, exams, and other medical treatments. Healthy animals facilitate happy adoptions! Rescue Village investigated and followed up on more than 1,400 animal neglect, abuse, and cruelty complaints through its humane law enforcement activities, some of which turned into search warrants, court dates, and partnerships with the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office. Rescue Village is a law enforcement agency, and it takes this work very seriously on behalf of the animals.
In September, Rescue Village’s Woofstock attracted 3,500 people and 2,000 dogs in what turned out to be one of the biggest one-day celebrations of all things dog in the organization’s history. Rescue Village also celebrated 20 years at 15463 Chillicothe Road, reconnecting with old friends and new ones while eating ice cream on a beautiful summer day. All of this work was done by 30 dedicated and resilient employees (down from a pre-pandemic staff of 50) and dedicated volunteers. Everyone was challenged this year and we have come through stronger.
Rescue Village’s work was made possible by the 7,751 generous people who made financial contributions in 2021 – Rescue Village is funded solely by its contributors, and we can never say thank you enough to everyone who gives so charitably.
Rescue Village hired a new executive director in March. A new board president and slate officers were elected in December. And with these changes is a continued dedication from all the staff and the board toward building a more vital organization geared for more significant and strategic positive impact, meaning more animal lives saved.
Rescue Village remains steadfast in providing humane solutions for animals and their people. As we look back at 2021, we know that the work is a strong foundation for the lifesaving work that is to come in 2022 and beyond.