Mount Vernon Animal Rescue Leader Hailed As Local Hero

MOUNT VERNON, VA — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Edward Marits PhD, who nominated Dana Melvin of Mount Vernon Animal Rescue.

Local hero’s full name

Dana Melvin

Local hero’s home state

Virginia

Local hero’s Patch

Mount Vernon

How do you know the local hero?

Through volunteering

What does the local hero do?

Operates a not-for-profit animal rescue

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

Animal Rescue is exhausting work. Small not-for-profit animal rescue must deal with a host of differing and often emergent cases. This rescue is providing service without charges to local community. Funding through donations and endowments. Labor is intense. Emotions r often fragile. Perseverance and empathic care r demanded. Burnout is frequent.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

She works tirelessly

Thank you for all you do, Dana Melvin!

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Know someone making a difference in town?

Nominate them here.