President Recognizes Local Woman for Helping Animals

Note: The following press release was shared by Teresa Mathers of Animal Behavior College.

Dawn Schweisgut of Hellertown knows firsthand what it feels like to watch her dream of saving dogs come true right before her eyes. A dream that she thought never had a chance to see the light of day. And even more to her surprise, she was honored in a very special way! Dawn is an honors graduate of Animal Behavior College (ABC) in the Certified Veterinary Assistant program. The college is the largest animal career vocational school of its kind in North America and offers courses for certified dog training, pet grooming and veterinary assistants. Dawn fulfilled the hands-on training portion of her studies at the Center for Animal Health and Welfare animal shelter near her home in Easton, PA. A dedicated volunteer, she still continues to devote many hours at the shelter to work with the animals.

Dawn’s employer, Capitol Blue Cross, was participating in an event called The Volunteer Team Challenge, where seven companies competed to have their project idea to help renovate a non-profit agency selected. The event takes place every year and local sponsors donate the materials and money for the project’s completion. Dawn was asked to submit a proposal, and she wrote up ideas for renovating something that was near and dear to her heart--the animal shelter where she was doing her externship training hours for Animal Behavior College. Never thinking that the committee would select an “animal related project vs. a people related endeavor,” Dawn’s proposal was voted on and selected!

Three-hundred and sixty-nine hours later, with help from 21 employees and their families, and $15,000 worth of building materials from local businesses, the shelter now has beautiful walking paths and is a bright, new space where dogs have more room to exercise, socialize and train, and are better able to spend some quiet time with potential adopters.

In appreciation of her efforts, Dawn was nominated for and chosen for The President's Volunteer Service Award from The President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The award is given as a way to thank and honor Americans who by their demonstrated commitment and example inspire others to engage in volunteer service. Dawn was excited to receive a certificate and letter signed by President Obama!