The beginning of a dream: The pic is of former Sheriff Rick Albers, Helen Buck and Marty (former animal control officer) PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARLIE’S PLACE[/caption]

Dear Editor,

In 2003, Clear Creek County Animal Control officer Marty Gitlin went to visit with his friend and fellow animal lover, Helen Buck. The two often discussed the current inadequate animal shelter. Despite dedicated citizen volunteers who would exercise the dogs when they could, there was little time out of their kennels. A search was already underway for an appropriate location for a new facility and Mrs. Buck had a wonderful idea: she would donate land that she owned to the county to meet that need.

Her vision was a no kill facility for all animals that needed a loving place until they could find a permanent home. She wanted it named “Charlie’s Place” after her beloved German Shepherd, Charlie. The perfect land was located along Clear Creek. Enthusiastic citizens approved a temporary mill levy increase to fund the building and soon Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties had a brand-new facility. Interior and exterior kennels housed dogs and two bright cat rooms were ready!

Volunteers, eager to assist the fledgling shelter, came to the shelter manager, Sue LeBarron, with ideas to make the shelter even better. Ms. LeBarron knew it would take more money and support than the shelter staff could provide and the county allocated a limited amount of money for financial support for veterinary needs. A 501(c)(3) organization which was eligible for grants, and non-taxable donations was needed to serve the animals.

To fill this need, Friends of Charlie’s Place (FOCP) was established in 2006. Money raised by FOCP would be used for medical expenses for shelter animals, assuring that no animal would be euthanized due to lack of funds.

A grassroots organization, FOCP set up fund-raisers and adoption events, partnering with the shelter and community. Many donors came forward allowing trainers to be hired and dogs with behavioral issues were transformed into loving, trusting, adoptable companions. Many businesses and citizens donated to the facility. To this day, not one animal has had to go without medical support thanks to FOCP.

Charlie’s Place had a small staff but was able to keep the shelter running and growing. Thanks to generous labor and material community donations, an exercise yard was established as well as the Helen Buck Memorial Garden. Two catios provide sun and fresh air and a great view of the wild birds visiting the feeders.

Charlie’s Place is a nationally recognized facility which implements innovative ideas and partners with rescues and animal welfare organizations throughout the country. Hundreds of animals have survived and flourished due to Charlie’s Place which now faces severe budget cuts potentially threatening the no-kill status of the shelter and possibly its very existence. If you are interested in learning more and to see how you can help, please contact Friends of Charlie’s Place at focp292@gmail.com. Let’s continue to save lives and grow even stronger.

Kathleen Atashpaugh

Peak to Peak