A Message from the Cherryland Humane Society Executive Director
July 28, 2003

On behalf of everyone associated with the Cherryland Humane Society, I wish to express to you our deepest appreciation for viewing the CHS Web site. Thank you for your interest in learning more about the CHS and the animals entrusted to our care.

The CHS was established in July of 1956. The commitment and efforts of thousands of individuals over many years have resulted in tremendous progress on the behalf of pets. There is much more to be done, however.

The CHS is a compassionate, focused organization dedicated to "providing a bright and positive future for all pets." We are fortunate to be associated with so many individuals who bring extraordinary expertise, talent and commitment to our endeavors.

Our first 10-year plan, Plan for Animal Welfare Success 2000 (PAWS 2000), brought many important successes on behalf of pets. Our second ten-year plan, Plan for Animal Welfare Success II 2010 (PAWS II 2010) is designed to take us to extraordinary levels on behalf of the well-being and future of pets. Vastly expanded programs, many of which have already been implemented, are designed to end the serious pet overpopulation problem, end pet neglect and abuse, promote the human/animal bond, promote the importance of pets to individuals, households, communities, and society in general, teach life lessons that pets have to offer, promote a humane and responsible attitude towards pets, and promote appreciation of and respect for pets.

The addition to our staff of Carole Huebotter, a nationally recognized humane educator who moved to Northern Michigan from the Chicago area and who now serves as our Director of Humane Education, has helped us launch a vastly expanded education program that has already realized significant results.

It is a truly exciting time for the CHS. We cordially extend to you an invitation to become involved in our endeavors. Your efforts, time, talents, expertise, volunteer help, financial help, and any other contribution you may make are deeply appreciated.

Pets give us unconditional love, joy, happiness, fierce loyalty, great companionship, and physical and therapeutic benefits. They overlook our faults, they are always overjoyed to greet us, and they make us feel good about ourselves. Because they are limited in ways that they can help themselves, it is our responsibility to bring resolution to the problems they face and to provide for them a positive and secure future. It is a tremendous privilege to work on their behalf.

Mike Cherry
Executive Director
Cherryland Humane Society