Meet Oak Tree Animals’ Charity, a charity based in Carlisle. This dedicated charity plays a pivotal role in improving animal welfare throughout the region, offering a sanctuary for over 4,400 animals in 2023 alone. Their mission extends beyond care and rehoming; they educate the community and advocate for animal welfare, ensuring every creature receives the love and respect they deserve.
Mission and Commitment
Oak Tree is relentless in its efforts to elevate animal welfare across the region. Their comprehensive approach includes community services, education programs, and robust rehoming services. They aim not only to assist animals in immediate need but also to inspire the community to prioritise and improve the welfare of animals consistently.
Transformative Volunteering: Levi’s Journey
Levi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of volunteer work at Oak Tree. Joining the charity over two years ago, Levi faced challenges associated with autism, ADHD, and an anxiety disorder. Initially reserved, his journey has been nothing short of inspirational. From tentative steps in the Cattery to proactive engagement in one of Oak Tree’s busiest charity shops, Levi has surpassed expectations.
His growing confidence is evident as he now embraces new challenges, learns diverse skills, and contributes innovative ideas to improve operations. Currently balancing his volunteer work with studies in car maintenance at Carlisle College, Levi has become an integral part of the Oak Tree family and a role model for anyone battling personal anxieties or self-doubt.
Get Involved: Volunteering Opportunities
Oak Tree thrives on the support of its volunteers, who are fundamental to the charity’s success. Whether you’re interested in hands-on roles with animals or prefer to support behind the scenes, there’s a place for you. Potential volunteers can explore opportunities online or discuss specific skills they can offer by contacting the charity directly. This inclusive approach ensures that every volunteer finds a role that suits their capabilities and interests.
Facing the Challenges
Recent economic pressures have escalated challenges for Oak Tree. Rising vet costs and an increased number of pets with complex behavioural issues have stretched resources thin. The average stay duration for cats and dogs has also extended, reflecting a decreased rate of adoptions and heightened care needs.
Community Impact: Beyond Volunteering
The impact of community support on Oak Tree is profound. Volunteers’ contributions in 2023 amounted to countless hours of service, significantly reducing operational costs and enabling the charity to extend its reach to more animals and their owners. This community-driven effort ensures that Oak Tree can continue its vital services, adapting to meet growing demands without compromising on care.
Join us in supporting Oak Tree Animals’ Charity not just during National Doggy Volunteer Week, but all year round. Your involvement, whether as a volunteer, donor, or advocate, makes a tangible difference in the lives of countless animals and enriches our community. Together, we can continue to transform lives and foster a region where animal welfare is not just a priority, but a passion.
Discover more about this tail-wagging charity, by visiting their website: oaktreeanimals.org.uk.
