After the sudden death of the beloved general manager of the Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch (AWSS), Lorna Hughes, the organisation hopes to honour her legacy by continuing pursuing her vision to build a Destination Centre for the AWSS.
According to Jessica Perrins, Head of Fundraising and Communications, Hughes had several ambitious goals that she was determined to accomplish in her lifetime which was tragically cut short. “The most impressive being the establishment of a retail centre that would be of benefit to potential adopters, volunteers and visitors to the shelter,” she said.
“She envisioned a Destination Centre with several income streams including a Vetshop to cater for the needs of all pets, a Charity Shop that would be of enormous benefit to the local community and those interested in re-cycling and upcycling. In addition, a cafeteria where visitors and staff have the opportunity to enjoy one another’s company over a meal or drink whilst they consider their adoption options,” Perrins added.
“As our general manager, friend, adopter, foster parent and advocate she created a better life for animals in our community. Because of her inspirational leadership during her 12 years at AWSS we are motivated to do the same.”
Perrins said so far the society’s determined efforts have raised one million of the two million rand needed to build the facility.
And to raise the extra funds the AWSS launched a Back-A-Buddy campaign last week.
“It was unanimously agreed all proceeds would go directly to the hundreds of animals in our care and those dependent on our life saving services. We need you to help us across the finish line so that we can realise Lorna’s dream together.”
