In the Great State of Texas in and around Houston, there is a wonderful organization - Operation Pets Alive - which is a non-profit organization staffed by an all volunteer team. OPA seeks to raise community awareness, to reduce the number of dogs and cats that enter shelters, and to increase the number of dogs and cats that leave the shelters to loving families and homes. OPA started when its founder, Marcia Potter, decided if she could get at-risk dogs out of the Montgomery County Animal shelter and transport them to shelters in the northeast they would be readily adopted and thus no longer be in danger of being euthanized. Now OPA sends monthly truck transports of dogs up north and monthly flights of puppies and kittens out west to Colorado.
Jen Allen and Stephane Derienzis donate their time, money, resources, and, yes, their homes to pets in need of care, foster care, and love. Certainly, Jen and Stephane pour their hearts and souls out for pets in need and make the community a better place for all. It takes a certain spirit and attitude to be a dedicated volunteer over a long period of time and both Jen and Stephane have what it takes to make good things happen for all of the right reasons.
On May 6, 2017, Operation Pets Alive hosted a Tennis Tournament at
Bear Branch Tennis Courts to raise money and awareness for OPA. The chairpersons of the event - Jen and Stephane - organized the event by spending many hours bringing people together to help pets and enjoy a great day of tennis.
Jen and Stephane, who can both be fierce tennis league competitors, were on the courts engaged in friendly battle against other doubles teams. Here is a link to read more about Operation Pets Alive and all of the wonderful work of its volunteers:
While Jen and Stephane are both busy with their respective families and everyday commitments and obligations, they both always find time to help and support this wonderful organization. Stephane practices what she preaches and is the owner of Izabel and Wee Man who were adopted from pet rescue organizations. Jen also sets a good example by her fostering of Grady, the fourth foster she has had for
Weimaraner Rescue of Texas.
Game, Set, and Match are well known tennis terms. OPA and other pet rescue organizations are also working on making the term
"Match" well known in helping dogs and cats find homes.
You can help support this organization and other pet rescue organizations in your geographic area with your financial support and participation in similar events.
The Good Deed Brigade salutes OPA, Jen Allen, and Stephane Derienzis for making a difference in the community. Follow the lead, example, and kindness set by Jen and Stephane and go into your community to do what you can to make a difference. Remember, wherever you see the Good Deed Brigade, it's all good!
