In a collaborative effort to strengthen animal welfare services, Nevada County and Sammie’s Friends are launching a new hybrid model for managing the Nevada County Animal Shelter. The Board of Supervisors approved the new model today.
Starting Nov. 1, the shelter will operate under the direction of Nevada County, while Sammie’s Friends will continue its vital work, providing wrap-around services like coordinating volunteers and foster services, and facilitating animal adoptions. Nevada County originally managed the shelter until 2010, when Sammie’s Friends assumed daily operations.
Supervisor Lisa Swarthout believes the new model is the best solution for all, adding that the nonprofit is a great organization that does wonderful work for animals. “I look forward to this partnership moving forward,” she said.
County Executive Officer Alison Lehman said the partnership combines the stability of public resources with the heart and community connection of a longtime nonprofit partner. “We are committed to providing quality services while preserving the compassionate care that our community expects,” she said.
Stacey Braudrick, Sammie’s Friends board president, added, “Our role remains essential - we’ll still be helping animals find homes, providing enrichment and additional medical care for them while advocating for the best possible outcomes for all animals,” she said. “This model ensures we can focus on what we do best.”
Together, the County and Sammie’s Friends remain committed to achieving positive outcomes for animals, including a policy of never euthanizing for space – an approach that reflects the community’s values of compassion and humane care.
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PHOTO: Mica, a young male available for adoption.