By Carol Stiffler
Kirby Wendt, a senior commercial account manager and insurance agent with Forest Insurance Center Agency, was browsing his email one day when he noticed a special offer from Secura Insurance: They were giving away 13 gifts of $3,000 each. Insurance agents were encouraged to nominate a non-profit of their choice to receive the funds. It’s an annual event of giving back for Secura, which is based in Neenah, Wisconsin.
Wendt, who has three dogs and whose mother loved animals, thought of Luce County Pet Pals immediately. He and about 480 agents filed nominations; Wendt filled one out for Luce County Pet Pals, a volunteer-led non-profit that raises funds to support unhoused pets and family pets in need. They also built the Luce County Animal Shelter and gave it to the county, which now runs the shelter.
“I nominated this organization not only because they hold a special place in my heart, but in our communities as well,” said Wendt. He pointed to Pet Pals’ efforts to assist with spay and neuter costs, help with emergency vet care costs, and the group’s monthly food pantry.
“They have one program that benefits the entire community – the Trap/Neuter/Release Project for feral cats,” he said, “which is aimed to reduce the number of feral cats within our community. This is why I chose this organization; they not only help individuals but at the same time, the community as a whole.”
On Giving Tuesday, Secura announced that they’d picked 13 winners, including Wendt’s beloved Pet Pals. He was ecstatic.
Pet Pals volunteers and officers thanked him many times for making the effort on their behalf.
Wendt hopes Pet Pals may one day be able to offer pet training or management classes.
