Shelter Manager Resigns with Sadness but Hope (cont.)

The rest of Kirsten's email.  We can all take encouragement in knowing that our efforts will produce results.

I've been blessed with the hardest working, dedicated, and tireless staff. These women are my heroes. They do a job I do not have the fortitude to do, day after day. They have NEVER let me down. Without them, I would have fallen flat on my face. Leaving them is the hardest part of this decision. They have made me a better person and I am proud to count them as friends.

To the volunteers who show up weekly and understand that we could never make it without their help; who know that to effect change of this magnitude requires help from everyone, not just those paid to be here; and who know how much they are valued, even when we forget to tell them- thank you from the bottom of my heart for working harder than you ever thought you would. You are appreciated, and you are needed to keep this good thing going.

To those of you who are neither staff nor volunteer, you have contributed to this mission in countless ways. Foster parent, rescuer, and adopter. You have influenced my time here and I want you to hear this news directly from me. You have made us better.

Thank you for believing in this vision. Thank you for dedicating so much of your time, hearts, and souls to this work. You made it possible; kicking in the door was the easy part. Leaving the shelter is the hardest thing I have ever done; but it is the right decision for me and I believe the right thing for the future of the shelter. I'm sure I'll be drawn back to this work and I will look for you down the road. I wish you the utmost success and will be here for you when and if you need me.