Future Of No-Kill Shelter Uncertain With Death Of Founder
By Kathy Walsh
FORT LUPTON, Colo. (CBS4)- A no-kill shelter in Fort Lupton is in desperate need of donations. "Every Creature Counts" has been in operation for 24 years, but the sudden death of its co-founder has left the future of the organization in jeopardy.
The non-profit has rescued, housed and found homes for more than 150,000 cats and dogs.
"They devoted their entire lives to this organization," said volunteer and chairman of the board of directors, Darlene Graham.
"They" are Lisa and Sam Booker. The couple founded "Every Creature Counts" back in 1992. Lisa died three years ago, but Sam carried on. It was a shock when he passed away on January 18.
"When Sam died we lost our fearless leader," Graham told CBS4's Kathy Walsh.
Graham has been a volunteer for eight years and board chairman for just one week. She says Sam Booker did the shelter construction, finances and public relations.
"Financially we're struggling to fill his shoes because we know we can't hire one person to do all the jobs that he did," said Graham.
Graham says food and other supplies are donated, the concern is cash flow.
"You know $50,000 to $100,000 would work wonders for us because it would give us the stability to get through the next few months," said Graham.
Graham says the passion for animals didn't die with the Bookers.
She is appealing to every dog and cat lover to donate. She wants to make sure abandoned puppies and aging dogs, unwanted kittens and ailing cats get a second chance.
Kathy Walsh is CBS4's Weekend Anchor and Health Specialist. She has been with CBS4 for more than 30 years. She is always open to story ideas. Follow Kathy on Twitter @WalshCBS4.
