The Guardians' work is done away from the facility, and they are generally not involved in the daily care and feeding of the many animals the organization cares for. Yet this is a group of genuinely dedicated people who strongly believe in the mission to nurture the nature of Arizona. Who are they?
Well, I interviewed three women who have been truly stellar in their efforts. Kathleen Lang has been working to help Liberty Wildlife for over twenty years. In fact she was instrumental in coming up with the concept of a fund-raising event that could support the organization. When I asked Kathleen what motivates her, she replied, "I am involved with a lot of non-profits, but my heart is with Liberty Wildlife. I love to tell the grassroots story, and how this group has done so much with so little since the very beginning." And although Kathleen is clearly passionate about the Liberty mission, she also enjoys working with the people involved. "We just have a lot of fun. You make friends through these groups, and you develop an admiration for each other when you work side by side to produce something that makes a difference. You form a bond that is much more than just going to lunch, you get to know people on a different level. And within this group are opportunities for all kinds of people. We all have our strong points, our own talents to contribute."
Peggy Cole came to Liberty Wildlife in 1999, when the loose-knit group that had been doing the fund-raising organized into the Guardians. Peggy says she is motivated on two levels: one to help the animals and the other is enjoyment of the camaraderie. "I am passionate about helping the wildlife, and the work we do is so important. Over half of the operating expenses for Liberty Wildlife are generated by the Guardians. We have to have the money to help the wildlife." Peggy says the Guardians is a diverse group of genuinely dedicated people. "The Guardians is the nicest fund-raising group I have come across. They care about Liberty Wildlife, and they care about the mission, and they work!"
A relative newcomer with three years at Liberty Wildlife, Barbie Baugh also finds joy both in helping the animals and working with like-minded people. Barbie says when she first toured the facility, she was hooked. "When you see firsthand what the money goes towards, it is inspiring. We are saving lives and doing great work educating people about wildlife all around the state." And Barbie says that as a newcomer, she was welcomed, enfolded by great people. Barbie states, "For me it is an opportunity to work hand in hand with fellow people who have a real heartfelt concern for Arizona wildlife, and to be part of a growing organization that really makes a difference."
The 2008 Wishes for Wildlife benefit will be held on May 3 at the Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs. A delicious dinner will be served under the stars, live and silent auctions will allow guests to come home with wonderful, imaginative items, and the Liberty Wildlife education birds will be showing their stuff. Lots of work goes into the production of these gala events, and the Guardians are waiting open-armed for new participants to the group. Wine, Women and Wildlife, a kickoff party to get the ball rolling and set up committees, will be held at the Paradise Valley Country Club on October 25 from 5:30-7 pm. Contact Peggy Cole if you are interested in joining this dynamic group. Zookpr54@aol.com or call 480-998-5284. You will be glad you did.
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