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| Tanya Ishikawa | News

November 2020 RACC Member of the Month: Second Chance Humane Society

In an ongoing effort to promote our local businesses and organizations, the Ridgway Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to introduce our November 2020 Member of the Month: Second Chance Humane Society and Second Chance Thrift Shops.

How are the Second Chance Thrift Shops connected to the Second Chance Humane Society?

Second Chance has two thrifts shops, one in Ridgway and one in Telluride. Together they typically provide about 75% of the nonprofit organization's funding.

Who are the key staff and volunteers in the Ridgway area?

The Second Chance staff members are Executive Director Kelly Goodin, Thrift Shop Manager Lynda Burns, Shelter Manager Elizabeth Kirwin, Business Manager Lisa Katz, Grant Coordinator Leigh Robertson, and Lu Anne Tyrrell in the Philanthropy Office. Key volunteers are Barb Morss, Heather Fornataro, Claricesa Kennedy, Adam Sherman, Cindy and Rick Jones, Chaucey Edwards, Heather Cammisa, and many more.

What is it important to know about how Second Chance cares for pets?

Second Chance treats all the homeless pets that arrive at the shelter with great care in cageless facilities with access to outside runs (or enclosed outdoor patios for the cats). Pets are provided medical and behavioral treatment and never euthanized for time or space. They are provided individual enrichment programs, training and socialization to prepare them for forever homes.

How can the community and visitors help you address your nonprofit’s needs? 

Please call to see if volunteer assistance is needed at the thrift shops. The shelter could use donations of cat and dog food for the Tri-County Pet Pantry.

How has COVID-19 impacted your organization?

Second Chance has had to cancel in-person fundraisers, the shelter lost its vet, and the number of people has to be limited in the thrift shops. More monetary donations from individuals would help keep critical programs going, such as the lost-cost vet clinics and Pet Pantry, which provides free pet food and supplies to those in need.

Do you have any specials discounts?

The thrift shops always have a weekly special running. Check at the shops for that week’s discounted items.

What do you value from being a Ridgway Chamber member?

A deeper community connection, learning about all the great things happening in Ridgway, and the ability to let residents and visitors know more about Second Chance Humane Society.

To visit the Second Chance Humane Society, go online to www.adoptmountainpets.org or call 970-626-2273 to check hours of operation. Locations are: Shelter, 177 County Road 10, Ridgway; Ridgway Thrift Shop, 309 Sherman St., Ridgway; and Telluride Thrift Shop, 335 W. Colorado Avenue (Main Street), Telluride.

For information about other shopping options in Ridgway, go to https://ridgwaycolorado.com/businesses/shopping.