Name: Kevin Fiasconaro
Age: 61
Residence: Boynton Beach
Birthplace: Red Bank, N.J.
Family: Wife, Lynne
Career: Semi-retired auto mechanic
Organization: Destiny for Dogs is a nonprofit dedicated to assisting seniors in keeping their dogs in their homes. It helps by providing food, supplies, veterinary care, short-term foster care in the event of medical and emergency situations, and planning to ensure the pet is cared for in the event the owner is no longer able to. They also are active in the rescue and placement of dogs in need.
How long have you been volunteering there?
One year this August.
Why do you volunteer?
Now that I find myself semi-retired, I have always wanted to be involved with an organization that helps our furry friends, to be their voice and save their lives.
Why did you choose this organization?
My wife and I met JoAnn Goodrich (founder of Destiny for Dogs) when we were going to foster one of her babies. The foster part did not work out; however, we felt like we had been a part of JoAnn’s life and commitment forever. We were attracted to the fact that we could make a difference in helping Destiny for Dogs grow into their new role as a nonprofit rescue.
Describe your volunteer role.
I contact all venues to see if our rescue can be a part of an event, and then I coordinate the fosters and volunteers to be at said event. I also research all emails sent to the rescue that are potential fundraisers.
What are your goals when you volunteer?
Foremost, to find our babies their “furever” homes, and to educate the public that it is better to rescue than buy at a pet store. Also, to raise as much as we can at an event so we have the funds to rescue more babies as 100 percent of all donations go to the rescue.
What challenges have you faced?
I have found that when you are passionate about a cause, you tend to meet a lot of people that get caught up in my excitement and promise the world. Unfortunately, a lot do not follow through. To put it bluntly, too much talk, not enough action with fundraising and volunteering.
What does your organization need?
Fosters, funds and volunteers — also, food, toys, treats, beds, leashes, collars, towels and more fundraising events.
Are any special events coming up?
We are always looking for special venues, so we can get our name out there. For the summer months, we are at local Pet Supermarkets most weekends indoors.
Is there a moment that stands out that made you think, “This is why I volunteer?”
Yes, her name is Abby Leia. Destiny for Dogs rescued Abby Leia along with a dog named Chewy. Chewy had been kept outside most of his life and therefore was very shy when it came to meeting people but was great with other dogs. We rescued them both and watched Abby Leia work her magic in socializing Chewy, so he was able to find his “furever” home. We were getting Abby Leia ready for hers when we found a lump, which turned out to be mass cell cancer. Our director has taken her into her home, and we are all making sure she will have the best life ever.
For more information, visit Destinyfordogs.com or call 561-313-2005.
Here is an update form Sheila’s Family:
Rosie is a 5 year old Corgi/American Eskimo mix 18 pound girl. Her new family said it was “Love at First Sight.” Many happy years to Rosie and her new family.
