New Humane Society slowly moving forward

By Janet DelTufo, Staff Writer

Establishing the Wickenburg Humane Society is proving to be a slow but steady process.

Organizers Natalee Rallo and Liz Powell have been spending nearly all their free time getting things in order and connecting with people interested in being a part of the organization.

It may not appear as though much has been accomplished over the last month, but little by little their efforts are beginning to show.

"There is not a lot we can do until our legal papers are properly accepted and filed by the Arizona Corporation Commission," Rallo said. "We have prepared a logo and are ready to launch a Web site, but we cannot publish this information until we get the go-ahead from the commission."

Papers were submitted to the commission last week for the purpose of reserving "The Humane Society of Wickenburg" name. The organization plans to do business as "The Wickenburg Humane Society."

This week, Rallo is seeking advice from the president of Arizona's Animal Welfare League on how to run a shelter and structure the organization.

In early September, Rallo and Powell will meet with Desert Caballeros Western Museum Public Relations Director Kate McCusker and with a former Petsmart store vice president. The four will discuss how to write and file incorporation papers and organizational bylaws.

McCusker has spearheaded Wickenburg's recycling program and brings to the group experience in setting up non-profit organizations.

Rallo is anxious to take care of the technical matters so they can start fundraising and promoting the organization. She said, however, the immediate goal is to create a foster care program.

Rallo said locating foster families for animals on weekends and holidays is currently the organization's No. 1 priority. She is in the process of forming a committee to get that project off the ground and running.

"We're getting things done, but it's been a bit overwhelming," Rallo said. "Liz is very busy at work now that school is back in session. But once we get more people on board, things will start moving at a quicker pace."

Rallo has been in contact with those who completed the informational forms during the Society's first meeting last month and others who have requested information. She also anticipates assistance from former Wickenburg Animal Control Officer Penny Denton.

Denton has worked on several animal rescue projects in the past and brings a certain expertise to the table.

Rallo said she and Powell are currently looking for someone who can help provide the Humane Society with a facility.

"Our next step is getting a building, even if it's temporary," she said. "We're looking for someone who will generously donate a piece of land or structure to this cause."

Rallo hopes to see the next meeting of the Wickenburg Humane Society take place in late September. Until then, the organization has a new phone number for those wishing to volunteer, make a donation, or obtain information. That number is 684-8801.

When the Web site is available, it will be published and is expected to provide an abundance of information.

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