“ People don’ t understand how important animals are to other people’ s mental health and well being. We’ ve been told by some of our applicants that that animal is literally the only reason that they get up out of bed every day. Having been able to get care for their animal saved their life as well.”
Recipients share stories of gratitude on the Hobo’ s Healing Heart website.
Chrystian wrote,“ Hobo’ s Healing Heart stepped in during one of the most difficult moments of my life. Their assistance gave Chloe a chance to receive the surgery and medical care she needed, and it gave me hope when I felt like I was running out of options. The support they provided was more than fi- nancial help— it was a reminder that there are compassionate people and organizations willing to help families keep their beloved pets by their side.”
Kelly gives credit to the many helping hands that keep the organization running.
“ I have a very good team. I have a great board. I quite honestly would not be able to do it without them,” said Kelly.“ We’ re proud of what we do.”
Even with a great team behind her,“ We are overwhelmed,” she admitted.“ The number of applications is increasing and we need more people.”
Volunteering can be as easy as writing thank-you notes or stuffing dog treat bags for upcoming events.“ We need more paws in our pack,” she laughed. As a non-profit, the organization relies on fundraising and donations to continue to serve the Black Hills community.“ Everything that we’ ve paid out has been either by our fundraisers, businesses and organizations that believe in what we do, who have made donations and through individual donors,” said Kelly.
The organization holds several fundraisers throughout the year including several fun 5k runs at Crow Peak Brewing in Spearfish, Lost Cabin Beer Co. in Rapid City and Lost Cabin Beer Garden in Hill City.
“ Basically, people just line up with their beer in hand and their dogs and walk in circles,” Kelly laughed,“ and raise money to help animals.”
For more information, to apply, to donate, for volunteer opportunities or to see upcoming events, visit hoboshealingheart. org..
A group photo during the Canyon Acoustic Music in the Park includes Spread the Tunes board members and Hobo’ s Healing Heart board members as well as one of the organizations grant recipients, Scout and his mom Katie. The group hosted a 50 / 50 raffle during the event, one of the organizations many fundraisers.
Participants line up at the starting line of the Crow Peak. 5K challenge, one of Hobo’ s Healing Hearts critical fundraisers. myblackshillscountry. com
Down Country Roads
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