Gilbert Engel, president of the board of directors for the Almost Home Animal Shelter, with Golden K chair Kathy Jo Anderson before speaking at Monday's meeting. (Submitted photo)

KINGSFORD — Monday presented a crisp cold day for the Golden K. The sun added a promise of warmth and the seniors braved the chill and found their way to the First Presbyterian Church. They were ready to share weekend adventures and thoughts of spring.

Chairperson Kathy Jo Anderson opened the meeting with the group reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Alyce Derwinski on piano accompanied the group singing “God Bless America.” We are reminded of the country we live in and the freedoms we are privileged to have.

Happy Dollars reflected the joy of getting together and anticipation of warmer weather ahead. Sarah Gospodarek took home winnings from the 50/50 drawing.

The speaker of the day was one of our own, Gilbert Engel. Gilbert is president of the board of directors for the Almost Home Animal Shelter. He brought the club up to date on happenings within the shelter.

Their mission statement reads: “The shelter is dedicated to the care and well-being of stray, abandoned and surrendered small animals.” The board, along with their volunteers, take this mission seriously.

They incorporated in 1969. Moving from two previous locations, they settled in Quinnesec near the intersection of U.S. 2 and Highway 141.

With community support, the organization has been able to keep up with the ever-growing need for safe, adequate housing and proper care for countless animals — dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, parakeets, gerbils and a ferret have been their guests. They keep the door open for any small animal that needs help.

As any pet owner knows, taking care of animals is no easy task. Animals brought in off the streets, surrendered for various reasons, or those mistreated are accepted at the shelter. Their needs are addressed and they are dealt with accordingly.

The shelter rises to the challenge on a daily basis. The cost per animal can be extensive at times. They must make sure the animal is people-friendly and can be readied for adoption. The shelter and their staff ensure that each animal is spayed or neutered and checked for fleas or lice. They do their best to get each animal ready for adoption.

Should an animal show signs of aggression, emotional or behavioral deterioration or chronic health issues, euthanization becomes the last resort.

The shelter depends on many hands to help deal with these animals. It is a seven-day-a week business. It can be a bit overwhelming, but Almost Home insists on doing everything they can to ensure each animal has a place that is clean, warm and safe while awaiting for adoption.

The building houses cages on the second floor for dogs and cats. The first floor is used for dog training. There is an area for can and bottle sorting and redemption. There are substantial expenses for maintenance, veterinarian visits, cleaning cages and transportation. The shelter is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and volunteers play a big role in keeping expenses down. A fundraising event is held every year and donations are always appreciated.

Further information can be found on their website at https://almosthomeanimalsheltermi.com/.

Golden K will meet at 10 a.m. Monday at the First Presbyterian Church in Kingsford. All are welcome.