My Nonprofit Reviews

I first discovered this organization about 16 years ago. I was beside myself with stress and unhappiness at the time; preparing for a move to the Bay Area and dealing with the earth-shattering realization that no Bay Area landlords would permit me to keep my companion Dexter, a rather large potbellied pig. After a chance meeting with LOH volunteers at a local event, Dexter's fate was no longer a quandry. He would have a wonderful new home and plenty of company. While I would miss him terribly, I would never have to worry over the quality of his life or whether or not he was being properly cared for. I went north to the Bay. Dexter went south to Solvang.

Over the years, I tried to look the organization up from time to time; to check on Dexter; to say "thank you" one more time. For some reason or another, I was never able to find them. Then, late in the Summer of 2010, I was feeling nostalgic and searched for them once more. This time, my query resulted in a website for the organization; and, I clicked "Send" for an email that would bring about much more than I expected.

LOH Founder, Sue Parkinson, responded within less than a day. I learned that Dexter had passed away just less than two years before. I was heartbroken, but happy to hear that he had lived so long and so well. Wanting to "give something back," I inquired as to any graphic design services that might be needed. Sue had a list. LOH needed a new website. They needed collateral. They needed edcuational materials. They wanted a new logo. They needed banners. They needed vehicle stickers. I could help! There was something I could do to start to repay Sue for the 10 years of wonderful care she had provided for my pig.

A few short months later, I was asked to join the board. Of course I said yes; and, I am glad that I did. I have found this small, but dedicated, board to be welcoming, active, and receptive to changes that will further best practice in our rescue operations and our sanctuary.

Since rediscovering LOH, I have seen Sue work wonders. I have watched as her skill and devotion restored health to Sammy, a pig who had been systematically starved for five years. I have seen the "before" pictures for Judge, a pig who had suffered terrible neglect and abuse and came to LOH injured, sickly, and untrusting. When I met Judge, I couldn't believe he was the same pig I had seen in those horrible pictures; he looks wonderful. I have watched and learned as Sue helped smaller rescues with veterinary support and and rescue assistance; as she has talked with people to educate them about the renewed plight of miniature pigs, and given unlimited time to concerned owners in advising them how best to care for their pets. And I have watched as she has cared for anywhere from 75 to 100 pigs on a daily basis; feeding and watering; providing medical attention; providing individual attention and enrichment; to all these pigs she knows by name.

I am truly proud to be on board!

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