Are you looking for more ways to help animals in need? Become a foster parent!  Kitsap Humane Society's Foster Care Program is an essential part of our life-saving mission, and we need YOUR help to ensure the continued success and growth of this crucial program. Fostering is short term (as little as a few weeks!) and for kittens, all you need is a room or area to keep them separate from your own pets, like a bathroom, spare room or mud room. Summer is the perfect time to get involved because the need is high, and kids are home from school and able to lend a hand! KHS foster parents provide temporary loving homes for animals who are not yet ready for adoption, such as kittens too young for adoption, sick or injured animals, and animals whose current behavioral needs are better met outside of a shelter setting.  In 2015, over 900 animals spent time in KHS foster homes, and this year we are on track to save even more lives! In the summer months, KHS takes in a very high number of animals in need of foster homes, (particularly kittens and puppies) so as the temperature outside rises, the need for new foster parents also increases!  Foster homes also allow us to have more room available at the shelter for another animal in need.  Being a KHS foster parent is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling things you can do to help animals in need, because you are truly helping to save the life of your foster animal, and the bond you form with your foster animal is unlike any other! If you would like to find out more about becoming a foster parent, please check out: www.kitsap-humane.org/get-involved/foster-care/

Many of us devote our time, talent and contributions because it's the right thing to do. We also gain a sense of satisfaction by sharing our generosity. Giving makes us feel good because it helps to:

Make a real difference. Sometimes "thank you" doesn't convey how much we truly care. Supporting an important cause that matters most in your life enables you to make a powerful impact on the lives of others.

Reflect our values. We all want to be part of a community that shares our values. Showing support, either through volunteering or including a gift to a charity in your will or trust, can extend your personal connection and give you a sense of belonging. It also reinforces your own belief system.

Be an inspiration. You may have had a favorite professor in college or a doctor who cared for you during a serious illness. We are often inspired to give back by a person who has touched our lives. A tribute gift is one way to honor that individual. At the same time, your generosity may inspire others to follow your lead.

Create an everlasting impact. You may find it important to leave your mark on the world. Planning a future gift helps ensure that the generation that follows will benefit from your contribution and that the programs you love continue beyond your lifetime.

Help others. You may have volunteered your time for a local organization because it provides assistance in your community. Using your will or beneficiary designations to make a gift to a charitable organization can help fulfill your desire to serve those in need.

Contact Tom Weed at (360) 692-6977 X1224 or at tweed@kitsap-Humane.org if you'd like to discuss ways to make a meaningful impact on Kitsap Humane and explore your giving options.