Heather Christiansen// Board Member
”A society will be judged by how it treats its weakest members.” – Fyodor Dostoyevsky Don’t think I sit and read Dostoyevsky for pleasure. I don’t. But this quote reflects why I am on the HSMC Board of Directors, and I think of it often. In my work as a Clinical Pharmacist at Marshfield Medical Center – Weston, I am often faced with humans that are in difficult positions; they are afraid, confused, and overwhelmed. It is not difficult to imagine how life might seem to those who feel they have no control, and no voice (this also includes animals). It is encouraging that, as a board member, I participate in conversations with other board members holding different points of view, as we try to find the best way to look after these animals that have, in a sense, been placed in our care. I take this responsibility seriously, and I am proud to say I work with others who take it equally seriously. I can also come home to my adopted dog and two adopted cats, look them in the face, and know that I have played a part in helping other animals find loving homes.
Cathy Taschler// Board Secretary
When I decided I wanted to be on the Board of the Humane Society of Marathon County, I wondered why I waited so long. I started thinking about all of the animals that my family had through the years, coming to the realization that I have never lived without one! The comfort and unconditional love they give to us is a feeling that I have been blessed with my entire life.
Along with Volunteering, one of the areas I enjoy working on is the Fundraising Committee. To be able to plan and participate in events that raise money for the animals in need is very rewarding. The support shown by community members and businesses is remarkable and greatly appreciated.
About 8 years ago, I was walking a dog named Remington. A funny little guy. As we were getting closer to the door to go back inside his safe area, he stopped at my car and looked at me, as if to say…..”You’ve been wanting a dog” and here I am! It didn’t take me long after I looked in those eyes that I put in my application, and the rest is history! There is something about the animals that come from shelters. There is a degree of appreciation and love that is hard to measure.
“Animals are such agreeable friends. They ask no questions, they pass no criticisms”-Geoge Eiot
Louis Centorcelli// Vice President
When I considered how I wanted to give back to my community, I was immediately drawn to the Humane Society. My motivation was simple—I love animals! Growing up, one of my favorite authors was James Herriot, of “All Creatures Great and Small” fame—the story of a vet in England and all the incredible encounters he has with animals. All my pets growing up were from the local shelter and that continues to this day with the adoption of “Spud” from the HSMC in April of 2019. I often think I got the better part of the deal when he came into my home!
The struggles of running a non-profit dedicated to animal welfare are challenging—especially in a world where so many are struggling every day to get by. I am humbled by the dedication of the staff and volunteers of the HSMC—the pressures and daily challenges they surmount are numerous. I hope that by volunteering my time as a board member, I can help make their days a little less challenging.
I think this James Herriot quote sums up my thinking: “If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans.”
Mary Tubbs// Board President
I began volunteering at the Humane Society (HSMC) because of my love for animals. Quickly realizing how important HSMC is not only to the animals, but to our community, I desired to become more involved and joined the board. As a volunteer and board member it has been an honor to witness the continuing hard work and dedication of the HSMC staff, the successful caretaking and adoption of our animals, the business adjustments implemented to survive through a tough economic period and the incredible generosity of the Marathon County communities. We are a hard working, passionate group at the HSMC- constantly striving to fulfill our mission: “To inspire and engage the community to end animal suffering and commit to responsible pet ownership”.
Come join us.
Donna Staples // Board Member
Upon retiring a few years ago, I wanted to make sure to continue to give back to the community where I lived, worked and played. Volunteering beyond human interests and needs, in addition to a history of volunteering for the Run for their Lives fund raiser), becoming a HSMC board member was a great fit as I’m a bona fide animal lover… especially dogs. I grew up with 6 siblings, and in our home, we always shared space and love with at least two hunting dogs at all times. That tradition of making a hunting dog a part of the family has continued ever since. My current pooch is a 10-year-old GSP that I adopted from Wisconsin German Shorthaired Pointer Rescue (WGSPR) five years ago. It was definitely a case of mutual rescuing at the time…. and a strong reason I’m now a pet adoption advocate.
I haven’t been on the HSMC board very long but already I feel the compassion other board members, employees and volunteers have towards our four-legged companions. I hope I can add value to the HSMC mission and continue to make a positive difference for our community.
Are you a community member with a passion for helping animals? We are looking for talented, compassionate individuals to join our Board of Directors.
