Anthem Pets President honored by women’s group
Staff Report ~ 6/16/2010

Barbara Windgassen, President of Anthem Pets Inc., was honored as the GFWC North Valley Women’s Club Volunteer of the Year last month.
Windgassen was instrumental in founding Anthem Pets Inc., a non-profit organization whose mission is to implement a fully rounded animal welfare program that provides education and resources to the community at large, promotes responsible pet ownership and works on various animal welfare issues.
Sadly, one of the most compelling animal welfare issues currently faced by the organization are the pets which are being left behind to fend for themselves in foreclosed homes. Windgassen and her team of dedicated volunteers are always willing to rescue and find homes for these helpless victims of the recession.
Additionally, they operate a 24/7 hot line for lost and found animals in the north valley communities. On a monthly basis, volunteer’s package donated dog food for the pets of needy people. They organize education programs, and low cost immunization, and microchipping clinics.
Windgassen is quick to say it’s a team effort and she’s just one of many who help to make the group successful. However, some of those who work alongside her rose and offered heartfelt testimonies on her behalf at the luncheon.
“Barbara is a visionary that doesn’t know the meaning of no,” Jim Robinson said.
“Barb is always ready to take a call to help a pet. I’m proud to call her my friend,” Michelle Roig said.
“Her enthusiasm, passion and dedication are contagious. She puts us all to shame,” Laura Day said.
For information about Anthem Pets, Inc. please visit their website at www.anthempets.com.
Affiliated with the international volunteer organization, General Federation of Women's Clubs, the North Valley Women's Club is a group of dynamic and diverse women determined to make a difference. The club has supported many projects benefiting the North Valley including, The North Valley Regional Library, We Care in Anthem, Habitat for Humanity – Desert Hills, The Salvation Army, Foothills Food Bank and the North Valley Sheriff’s Posse.
The GFWC North Valley Women’s Club meets on the first Tuesday of every month at the North Valley Regional Library. For more info about the club, please visit www.gfwcnorthvalley.org or email them at info@gfwcnorthvalley.org .