Humane Society of Harrison County elects new leaders, plans October fundraiser

The Humane Society of Harrison County has undergone reorganization after both its president and vice president stepped down.

“Change comes to all things… whether that be an individual or an association,” said society newsletter editor Scott Vorhees. “This could seem like a big concern for the organization as a whole. However, HSHC is not one individual, or even two. It is the allegiance of a great number of dedicated volunteers and souls with a united goal for the animals.”

In addition to the leadership vacancies, the county’s humane agent also resigned, leaving a gap in emergency animal aid. Vorhees said someone is currently working to become a humane agent, which requires 20 hours of training.

An emergency meeting was called to chart a path forward, and new officers were elected. Cait Hullihen was chosen as president.

“I am so excited to start this new journey as president and I hope to help the society grow and flourish into its full potential,” Hullihen said. “I’m honored to work alongside such caring and passionate team members who go above and beyond to help and care for each animal.”

Hullihen said she is deeply committed to helping however possible.

“I would just like the community to know that we are here to help and to do what we can with the limited resources that we have. We hope to find funding to help us grow like we anticipate. Even if all we can offer is advice and help in a situation, we are here for that as well. We want people to feel safe reaching out for help even if it’s for a bag of food or resources for a low cost clinic. The more volunteers, fosters and adopters that we have, the more animals we can help. That’s our goal.”

Lori Mayher was elected vice president. Mayher has been involved with the society since it was revived in 2017 and has fostered many dogs, cats and horses. She was the first recording secretary for the Trap-Neuter-Release program and has assisted with multiple rescues.

She said she would like to see more people in the community get involved. The society is always looking for volunteers and foster homes, and interested residents can contact any volunteer or board member for more information.

The group is also preparing for its October event, Paws for a Cause. Organized as a senior project by Sophie Bland and Mercedez Cooper, the event will be held Oct. 25 at the Harrison Central track. It will include a one-mile run/walk and a dog costume contest starting at 10 a.m. Registration is available through any volunteer or board member.