Local Humane Society draws support from Tyndall Controller

  • Published
  • By Capt. Amanda Ferrell
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Stress associated with controlling air traffic at one of the busiest air fields in the Air Force, compounded with the current economic downturn, can be a lot of pressure for one person to handle.

Fortunately, a Tyndall air traffic controller has found a way to relieve stress while supporting a struggling non-profit organization in the local area.

Tim Hibbard, a Tyndall air traffic controller, recently began volunteering at the Bay County Humane Society, the only non-profit, no-kill shelter in local area.

"Volunteering at the Humane Society is a great way to serve the local community, and it's also a great way to relieve stress," said Hibbard, who has volunteered more than 15 hours of service since partnering with the non-profit in October.

Hibbard has been a controller at Tyndall for years, but has only recently discovered the volunteer opportunity at the Bay County Humane Society.

"The organization is one of many in the area that rely solely on contributions, volunteer support and community donations to continue operating," said Hibbard. "And because of the current economic situation, it's become harder to manage the facility, so my time spent here is more important than ever."

The Bay County Human Society, which has been operating in the area for nearly 25 years, has been working to increase donations, recruit volunteers and partner with local businesses through sponsorship opportunities.

"Our greatest challenge is making ends meet financially," said Maria Baker, Bay County Humane Society manager. "We appreciate the support we receive, and we continue to strive for strong, committed partnerships with sponsors from the local community."

Tyndall Airmen, many of whom join community service leagues on the installation, are some of the most active members of the Bay County Humane Society volunteer crew.

"Military members are our most active, reliable volunteers," said Baker.

Hibbard, who volunteers primarily on weekends, spends his time walking dogs and caring for other pets awaiting adoption.

"It's a pleasure to be a part of the team here, and spend time with the animals," said Hibbard. "There's nothing better than playing with the dogs - each one has character. The animals are always excited to see you, and they're all anxiously awaiting good homes - which is the end goal for the entire animal care team here."

"Our goal is to find 'forever homes' for all animals here," said Baker. "We have an effective program to help place the right pet in the right home."

Dog walking and caring for animals in the facility is a joy that relieves stress associated with air traffic control, which is a career field known for a high-stress, intense work environment, said Hibbard. But volunteering at the Bay County Human Society does not come without challenges of its own.

"It's easy to get attached to the animals here," said Hibbard. "They are all very energetic, loving pets who are ready to join a good family. It's tough to leave here without wanting to take them home with you."

Volunteers, while able to enjoy the advantages of spending time with animals awaiting adoption, play a significant role in the success of the entire organization. Those who volunteer at the Bay County Humane Society participate in an orientation program and undergo training prior to assuming duty as an animal care support team member.

"All volunteers attend a two-hour orientation and training course prior to serving here," said Baker, who often leads orientations and training sessions for incoming volunteers. "The course is intended to introduce volunteers to the facility and animals here, as well as educate them on our purpose, mission and vision as a non-profit Humane Society."

The training program also helps match volunteers with duties they are compatible with and enjoy. Hibbard, who enjoys working with canines, found his niche working with the more than 20 dogs currently held for adoption at the Humane Society.

"We work to pair volunteers with projects and programs they have fun doing," said Baker. "We find that most volunteers become well-acquainted with the animals here quickly, and enjoy contributing to the adoption process by helping prepare our pets for life with a caring family."

In addition to the many military members who support the organization, local small businesses have pitched in through sponsorship and volunteerism as well.

Terri Davidson, a Bay County Humane Society board member and local business owner, helps promote pet adoptions through advertisement and volunteerism.

"It's important to me to see that each one of these pets finds a healthy, loving home," said Davidson. "I'm proud to play a small part in supporting the Bay County Humane Society, which has operated as a local non-profit for many years here."

While Hibbard is reluctant to add another animal to his already pet-friendly household, he does plan to continue supporting the Humane Society by volunteering as often as possible.

"There is nothing more satisfying than working with the outstanding employees here, who take very seriously the task of finding displaced animals a safe, healthy home," said Hibbard. "It's not only therapy after hours of stressful work in the control tower, but a pleasure to serve in the local community."

If you are interested in volunteering at the Bay County Humane Society, or adopting a pet, visit www.adoptme.org.