Winter 2006
Event Honors Our Companions Volunteers

On December 3rd, Our Companions honored the work of over 50 volunteers by hosting our first annual Holiday Volunteer Appreciation Party.  While we truly appreciate everyone’s service, a few volunteers received a special award in recognition of their tremendous efforts over the year.  We are pleased to have awarded the following people our Volunteer Excellence Award for outstanding service to Our Companions.

Terri Ayers, Special Events Director.  Terry has been instrumental in organizing all of our events, including our Dogman Classic Golf Tournament, Connecticut Cares for Cats Conference and the media event in Bushnell Park in Hartford, where we “unleashed” our plans to build the resource center and sanctuary.

Anne Kutscher, Volunteer Coordinator.  With a background in human resources, Anne is the perfect volunteer coordinator.  Not only does Anne perfectly place our volunteers to maximize the scope and efficiency of our programs, but she also finds many creative ways to let our valued volunteers know how much we appreciate their many contributions.

 Risa Davison, Lead Trainer.  Risa is one of the talented and dedicated trainers in our Lead training program.  Each Sunday, you will find Risa conducting classes and leading many of our training programs.  When she’s not teaching classes, she travels to people’s homes evaluating and recommending behavioral regiments to help dogs who may not be ready for a class environment.

Jeannie Kitchens, Office Administrator.  Day or night, you’re likely to find Jeannie at our office in Bloomfield.  When Jeannie’s not in the office, she’s working on the next plan for a fundraiser or is serving on one of our committees.  As if that’s not enough, Jeannie is a master at procuring goods that are necessary for the organization’s programs and events.  She is also one of our most generous in-kind donors.

Thank you to Terri, Anne, Risa and Jeannie for your outstanding service to Our Companions.  We couldn’t do it without you!