Corporate giving from Western Reserve Group strengthens Wayne County Dog Shelter

Through volunteering, giving and partnerships, the Western Reserve Group insurance company continues to make an impact — most notably through its ongoing corporate sponsorship of PAWS for the Wayne County Dog Shelter.

“It’s something our employees are passionate about,” WRG representative and PAWS President Brenda Siladi said. “We want to encourage people to give back where it means the most to them, and for many, that’s helping the animals right here in Wayne County at the shelter.”

At the heart of WRG’s community focus is its Volunteer Time Off program, which provides each employee with 16 paid hours annually to support local nonprofits. In 2024 WRG staff contributed 1,203 volunteer hours to more than 30 organizations, with the Wayne County Dog Shelter receiving some of the most consistent support.

Beyond volunteer hours, WRG extends its support through financial contributions and donations to local nonprofits. As a corporate sponsor of PAWS, WRG helps fund the shelter’s most pressing needs — medical care, food and enrichment programs — ensuring dogs receive quality care while waiting for homes.

“Corporate sponsorships provide the stability we need to plan long-term,” said Katelyn Lehman, dog warden and director of the Wayne County Dog Shelter. “They help us care for more dogs, improve living conditions and sustain programs that make adoption possible.”

The shelter is currently operating over capacity, caring for dozens of dogs housed in makeshift accommodations. Temporary kennels, garages and hallways are repurposed to house overflow, increasing staff workload and animal stress. The need for consistent financial support has never been greater.

Sponsorships through PAWS help in the following ways:

—Provide direct care: Covering medical treatment, vaccinations and food.

—Enhance enrichment: Funding toys, bedding and programs to improve quality of life.

—Ensure stability: Creating predictable funding for ongoing operations.

—Recognize generosity: Sponsors are acknowledged at events, on social media and in promotional materials.

“Sponsorships allow us to sustain and expand the care we provide every day,” Siladi said. “As the number of dogs increases, so do our needs — more food, more medical care, more enrichment. Community support through sponsorships is what makes it all possible.”

PAWS offers sponsorship levels ranging from $250-$10,000, with benefits that include event tickets, public recognition and tax-deductible contributions. Every dollar raised supports the shelter’s mission of compassion and care for wayward dogs.

Wayne County businesses and individuals are encouraged to join Western Reserve Group in supporting PAWS and the Wayne County Dog Shelter. Whether through sponsorship, donations or volunteer time, each contribution helps ensure every dog can find a loving home.

To learn more about corporate sponsorships or volunteer opportunities, visit www.pawsforwcds.org/paws-sponsorship.

Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.