Good Mews
Sometimes you're just born with it—a compassionate nature and a drive to make a difference. For Nikki Healy, Executive Director of Cobb County’s Good Mews, that determination led her to the abandoned and underserved. In return, she found family and some of the most loved felines in the world.
Healy’s passion began early.
“I have raised all sorts of wild birds, squirrels, kittens, puppies, etc. When I didn't find something in the wild, I was fostering for our local nonprofits. Knowing that you can make a difference in one's life is extremely fulfilling,” Healy says.
That same spirit thrives at Good Mews, a cage-free, no-kill shelter where all cats are welcomed and loved.
“Our staff and volunteers are some of the most wonderful people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting," Healy shares. "Our staff are all here because they believe in our mission and want to add to the culture that cats are individuals and deserve the best care we can offer."
Funded solely by donations and community support, Good Mews hosts events like a gala, trivia nights, and harvest markets. Their Kitty Keeper program allows kids and adults to sponsor a resident cat for $20 per month and receive letters in return.
Visit goodmews.org to learn more or get involved.
Georgia House Rabbit Society
All living things need love and care. While most think of dogs and cats when it comes to rescue, rabbits are the third most euthanized animals in the U.S. For Jennifer Deen, Executive Director of the Georgia House Rabbit Society, that fact was unacceptable.
Her passion for rabbits began unexpectedly.
“One little rabbit is the reason why I am where I am today," Deen recalls. "My first husband had a snake. One day, he came home with a baby bunny and put it in the snake enclosure. In that moment, I realized that he was soon going to be my ex-husband.”
Seeking expert care for her rabbit led her to the Georgia House Rabbit Society. She began volunteering, took on every role and eventually became Executive Director.
“The simple existence of a domestic rabbit-specific rescue, complete with a retail storefront, grooming services and a boarding facility that all serve the most underserved animal was the appeal for my involvement,” Deen says.
The organization rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes rabbits while offering spay/neuter and foster services. They also educate the public on rabbit care and bonding.
“Volunteers are drawn to the quiet and peaceful nature of rabbits,” Deen shares.
To volunteer or learn more, visit houserabbitga.com.
Hand, Hoof and Heart
Tucked away on 15 serene acres, Hand, Hoof and Heart is more than a farm. It’s a sanctuary for both people and animals. When founder Erin Chimberoff started the organization, she had no idea that one horse and a desire to make a difference would grow into a place that helps so many.
Having struggled with anxiety, Chimberoff found unexpected healing in the presence of horses.
“Being around horses gave me a sense of purpose and calm that I couldn’t find anywhere else," Chimberoff shares. "Working with animals helped me feel confident, capable and grounded.”
Combining her love for animals with experience in the special needs community, she envisioned a place for connection and healing.
“I wanted to create a place where others could experience that same connection," Chimberoff says. "A place where people could learn life skills, gain confidence and feel supported through hands-on work with animals and the land.”
Today, the organization offers programs that help youth build emotional regulation, communication, and life skills, whether through riding, grooming, gardening or simply spending quiet time with animals. Volunteers play a vital role.
“We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds and experience levels," Chimberoff says. "Every role is important, and every volunteer makes a difference.”
To get involved, visit handhoofheart.org.
Mostly Mutts
It’s funny how animals can change your life. For Kelley Long, Director of Development at Mostly Mutts in Kennesaw, adopting two Australian Cattle Dogs was life changing.
“I had had a strong feeling that a change was needed for a very long time, and I knew there was something better out there for me,” Long says. Her intuition was spot on.
“After quitting my job, I started volunteering for Mostly Mutts to just spend time with the animals," Long recalls. "However, the people were so wonderful, it felt like home. That warmth is felt the moment you walk in, and the animals feel it too."
Some animals arrive after being relinquished due to training challenges. This is where Mostly Mutts excels. Each animal is examined by a veterinarian, then evaluated by a trainer. Once basic commands are taught, they’re ready for fostering.
“Fostering is key to what we do," Long says. "We try to understand the dog and its needs for correct placement. Upon adoption, that family is offered free training for life.”
Mostly Mutts raises funds through events like “Pints for Paws” and “Bingo Night.” The group also runs a program pairing dogs with incarcerated individuals, who learn training skills for future employment.
To get involved, visit mostlymutts.org.
There are more than 50,000 animal-related, non-profit organizations in the United States. From animal welfare to rescue, to the service of humans, these organizations are run by compassionate, nurturing individuals who give their all. Here, we spotlight four organizations and feature the amazing humans who give of themselves every day.