July 11-14th was a very busy week at the RLRR shelter. We were blessed to have hardworking Youth Works groups from Winona Central United Methodist, Winona, MN; Crossview Church, Leo, Indiana; and First Presbyterian Youth Group, St. James, MN working at the shelter.
The main focus of our project was to brush out the area surrounding the kennels and shelter yard in attempt to get more air in for drying out the shelter and keeping mosquito swarms down. Also the volunteers worked in the cathouse and also removed all the old straw from around the cathouse.
Team 1 worked for the first 2 days and 
Team 2 worked the last 2 days.
So much was accomplished during their visit, it was amazing to see that with just hand tools they were able to cut down the area and rake up sticks. 
It looks so nice now at the shelter in 3 main areas!
We got 192 hours of volunteer labor on the brushing. 
Caleb, the young man with the mohawk haircut got the nickname "Paul Bunyan" as he could carry large trees single-handedly. He also found a large snake, which he relocated to a place away from the brushing area.
Some of the girls fell in love with little Mini- the tiny kitten and pampered her.
The kids absolutely LOVED the dogs and cats, and interacted with them as all the dogs ran free for the 4 days and really liked the company.
Here are some comments that students made:Tori says: The Red Lake Rosie’s is a great place doing even greater things. It is a privilege to be here.”
Addi says: Red Lake Rosie’s is the place to be to get to know dogs. It’s hard not to find a friend here.”
Megan says: “This mission is a well-worth project- many four-legged friends were made”
Stephanie says: “It is a blessing to serve you- glory to God”.
When the group left they had all gotten together the night before and talked about RLRR being a ministry and pitched in and gave Karen $72.00 as a donation. They had all given some, and that was very moving. They said that they were impressed with the animal project and how RLRR volunteers are giving 100% and that’s why they like to help so much.
Youth Works is operating on the Red Lake reservation from June – August, 2011 doing many great things for the Red Lake community. 
Red Lake Rosie’s is so happy just to be able to be a part of their great work.
Sincerely, Karen RLRR
What a fantastic group of kids and
ReplyDeletetruly a heartwarming story. I am
in awe of the hard work, loyalty,
and great team effort in helping RLRR. Thank you, each one of you, for helping Karen and making such a huge difference. I am betting the animals in the rescue adored having you there for some hugs, tender touches, and kind words. Thank you!!!
ahhh made me tear up!
ReplyDeleteKaren,
ReplyDeleteI have been on two YouthWorks trips (Alaska and Puerto Rico)with my kids and in addition they have travelled to reservations in Oklahoma and just returned from Lame Deer Reservation in Montana. YouthWorks is an AMAZING organization, doing great things. Yes, RLRR benefitted from their hard work, but what you may not know is what the volunteers gained from the experience. Twyla
It was also hugely hot during the time they were working! The kids did such an awesome job, I'm sure the animals loved them, too! Thank you so much!! ^_^
ReplyDelete