|
|
|
Karen Lee Stevens and Canine Ambassador, Sandy
Photo by Paul Bryant/Left Coast Digital
|
Hello! My name is Karen Lee Stevens, founder and president of ALL FOR ANIMALS, INC. I founded AFA in January 1997 as resource for animal lovers in Santa Barbara, California. Over the years, our mission has evolved and expanded and today, we focus on providing children the opportunity to experience the unconditional love of animal companions. Our Compassion for Critters Humane Education program has reached thousands of children in Santa Barbara through reading, storytelling, and interaction with many types of therapy animals. Our presentations build on the natural curiosity and affection that children have toward animals and helps them create safe and satisfying relationships with animals that will last a lifetime.
Of course, I couldn't do all this work alone. In addition to having a terrific Board of Directors, I also owe credit to AFA's co-founder and my beloved feline friend, Cassidy, who passed away in my arms in March, 2000. In addition, my work day would not be nearly as much fun without Miss Bella, my rescued British Shorthair cat (that's her next to the All for Animals logo above). I adopted "Belle" from Forever Homes Pet Rescue of Simi Valley nearly five years ago (where does the time go?!). At the time, a British Shorthair cat breeder went out of business and (gulp!) 100 of her cats were suddenly homeless. This British beauty had never lived anywhere but a cattery, so it took her some time (OK, a loooong time!) to acclimate to living in a real home. To this day, she prefers keeping all fours on the floor (translation: she detests being picked up--presumably, a testament to her traumatic kittenhood), but she loves being petted and she gives the sweetest little kisses (mostly when she's trying to wake me up in the morning).
And, much love to Sandy (pictured above), our Canine Ambassador who lends a helping paw at all of our classroom presentations. Sandy is the epitome of joy and she happily receives treats and tummy rubs and brings smiles to the faces of children and adults everywhere she goes!
The site is updated on a regular basis, so please bookmark us now and visit often! Your comments and suggestions are always welcome. Feel free to send me an email message at karen@allforanimals.com.
May the Fur Be With You,
Karen Lee Stevens
