Minneapolis Animal Care and Control's (MACC) mission is "working with residents to create safe and healthy communities for people and animals" Lost, abandoned, stray, and abused animals all find shelter at MACC, where they are receive food, veterinary care, and a clean environment. Animals without owners are put up for adoption after five days. The employees at MACC do their best to ensure each animal finds a good home. MACC is part of the city of Minneapolis, allowing the shelter to investigate cases of animal abuse and prosecute the offenders. Educating the public about proper housing and care of animals is also very important at MACC.
I chose to work with this agency for my service learning project for several reasons. First, because animals are extremely important to me and I will be applying to veterinary school in the fall. Also, MACC has the ability to prosecute animal abusers, something most shelters do not have the power to do. Additionally, MACC has a well-organized volunteer program and their flexible hours are perfect for my schedule. The best part about volunteering with MACC is that I get to have direct contact with the animals in the shelter. I get to make a difference while doing something I truly love.
Through volunteering, I believe I will learn more about current animal rights laws in Minneapolis and in Minnesota in general. Working with the other volunteers will teach me about working with people of many different backgrounds. Through the research and writing processes, I will refine my academic skills and improve my ability to organize my ideas. Most exciting, I will get to experience the satisfaction of helping others without expecting anything return.
