FRANKLIN — Franklin Animal Shelter has made the difficult decision to close its doors. This sad news has caused me to reflect on what the shelter has meant to me. 

Moving to Franklin in 2022 brought exciting changes. I quickly learned just how special Franklin is as my group of friends and sense of community grew. Seeing the commitment of many volunteers who support the city’s health, recreation, arts, and culture inspired my own choice to become a part of that momentum. 

The energy behind Mill City Park, The Franklin Opera House, Twin Rivers Food Pantry, Veterans Memorial Recreation Area, and Winnipesaukee River Trail Association, amongst other nonprofits, has served as a major driver of my own inspiration to contribute to the wellbeing of Franklin. I joined the board of Franklin Animal Shelter in the fall of 2023. 

As a lifelong dog owner and animal lover, making a commitment to this nonprofit felt like a natural choice to support the community that quickly became my home. Most of my responsibilities on the animal shelter board were related to marketing, event planning, and fundraising. I was able to represent Franklin Animal Shelter at events like Franklin’s Community Day, and I contributed to social media campaigns to promote animals for adoption.

 I am fortunate to say that my experience with the shelter has given me much joy. The sense of purpose and meaning I have gained through this volunteer role is extremely valuable. The personal impact it has had on me and many others makes its closure a difficult event. 

Many people have contributed to Franklin Animal Shelter over the years and deserve thanks. These include former and present staff, volunteers, board members, donors, as well as leaders of the city of Franklin, including police chiefs, city managers, city council members, and mayors. I am truly grateful to Franklin and its surrounding communities for the deep commitment shown to cats, dogs, and the animal-lovers among us.