Sun-Sentinel February 28, 2016
Destiny for Dogs volunteer Nina Blakeman helps animals in need. (Submitted photo / FPG)
By Jennifer Shapiro-Sacks Special correspondent
Name: Nina Blakeman
Residence: West Palm Beach
Birthplace: Central Florida
Family: Married, cat named Sonny
Career: Office manager/receptionist
Organization: Destiny for Dogs is a nonprofit dedicated to assisting seniors in keeping their dogs in their homes. Destiny for Dogs helps by providing food, necessary supplies and veterinary care; short-term foster care in the event of medical and emergency situations; final planning to ensure the pet is cared for in the event the owner is no longer able; they are also active in the rescue and placement of dogs in need.
How long have you been volunteering there?
Three years.
Why do you volunteer?
I want to help save the lives of animals and support people like JoAnn who do the same.
Why did you choose this organization?
JoAnn, who started the organization, helped me save a life of a hard to place dog and she stayed committed with me until placement came, months later.
Describe your volunteer role.
I walk dogs in Rescue Destination that are awaiting a foster home or permanent placement. I attend adoption events when needed and yard sales to raise money to vet animals. I also do feral cat rescue, trapping, sterilizing and finding homes. I assist Destiny for Dogs with providing donated dog and cat food to those families in need and educate them on the importance of spaying and neutering their pets.
What are your goals when you volunteer?
I want to help save the lives of animals and support other rescuers like JoAnn who do the same. The animals deserve all the help they can get.
What does your organization need?
We always need good foster homes, money for vetting and JoAnn could tell you what specific kind of food and other supplies she uses for our dogs.
Are any special events coming up?
Third annual Rainforest Parrot Party on Feb. 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Rainforest Clinic for Birds and Exotics in Loxahatchee and the Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office eighth annual Run for the Animals on April 30 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Okeeheelee Park in West Palm Beach. Destiny for Dogs will have donation jars and dogs for adoption at both events. Also, there will be a quarter auction on May 25 at the Royal Palm Beach Cultural Center at 6 p.m.
Is there a specific memorable moment that stands out to you during your time volunteering?
Every time we get a malnourished, abused, neglected, discarded, precious animal that blossoms with proper food and medical care and most of all time, attention, love, patience and compassion.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Please spay and neuter. Also, I am grateful to be a small part of the huge effort and sacrifices that JoAnn makes every day to save precious animal lives.