In a year like 2020, where humanity has endured the challenges of a century, heroes in a range of industries have been at the forefront of our nation’s gratitude. We have not only been inspired by nurses, doctors, and essential workers, but also by those taking care of a sometimes forgotten group, abandoned animals.
Cecilia Rand, a community member from Inglewood, CA, led the initiative to show gratitude to the exceptional personnel at The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) located in South Los Angeles. Having been an animal shelter volunteer herself, she understood, first-hand, the long hours and emotional stress that came with taking care of abandoned animals.
“Hundreds of animals are discriminated against by their breed, abandoned and put down. When I walk into the shelter, I remember the love of Christ for me and mirror that in caring for the most vulnerable in our lives—animals” stated Cecilia Rand.
On December 5, Cecilia rallied together with other community leaders and members to show Shelter staff their gratitude. Church volunteers put together dozens of Gift bags which included food, treats, chew toys, and gift cards for the heroes working at the Animal Shelter off West 60th Street.
The shelter employees expressed how joyful they felt for the appreciation on behalf of the community. Cecilia stated “What I will remember most from the event are the smiles of the hardworking staff and the joy of the animals, knowing they are loved.”
