GEORGE NEWS - Donatella Pontesilli, who has been involved in animal rescue for many years and does excellent work in George and the Southern Cape, has been voted George Good Citizen for June.
"I have so much love and respect for our animals, they are so pure-hearted and loyal, and we can learn so much from them," she says.
"I am very honoured to have won this prize. The reason I won is because of people's love for animals. I am incredibly elated for animal rescue to be placed so brightly on the map!"
Donatella stresses that rescue organisations constantly need our support: money, food, blankets - anything that can help - and she certainly does whatever she can.
She recently started the Jammin' for Dogs project and relies on donations. Her sales have already raised over R15 000 for Odin (Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need).
"The initiative started after I rescued a dog off the street and asked if I could board him at Odin until we find him a home. Knowing how much extra help they need, I decided that I was not going to just leave him there. If you want to be actively involved with rescue, you need to follow up, follow through and give what you can. I had some grapes growing in my garden and decided to make some jam.
"Well, other people got involved and donated jars and fruit, and helped decorate. They even helped sell the jam. It really was amazing to see the community pull together like that for such a good cause. There are still lots of jam for sale at Odin and all proceeds go directly to Odin. I hope that people see how I took action to raise funds, and that it inspires them to do the same!"
Pontesilli says people don't have the right to ignore the cruelty around us. "Animals need our help and our voices, and it's our responsibility to give that to them. If you cannot home a dog or a cat, you can still assist by spreading awareness and offering as much as you can to help. Owning a pet is a huge responsibility, so take it seriously and keep them safe. They would never let you down."
What does the Good Citizen award mean to her?
"Well, I give my all to helping animals, and by winning this award, I hope I can be a role model for others to do the same. I am going to add the prize money to the jam money that I've raised thus far. "
She urges everyone not to shop, but to adopt. "Rescue, rescue, rescue, and spread the love. It is time to shine! Choose to feed the good in you by helping our precious animals. You will be rewarded in kind." Well done, Donatella. You are a remarkable person and thank you for all you do for the animals.
Nominate and vote
George Herald has taken hands with We Are George and other major role players to promote and support the George Good Citizen Award initiative. The initiative was started in October last year to recognise deserving citizens who walk the extra mile to make George a better place.
A prize of R1 000 cash is awarded each month to the person who is voted George Good Citizen of the Month by the public on Facebook.
To vote for or nominate your most inspiring Georgians, go to the George Herald Facebook page and click through to the Facebook pages of We Are George or George Good Citizen Awards.
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