Leona Sheddan - Executive Director, Jacksonville Humane Society
Mission
To be a resource in the community for all companion animal related issues and to find permanent, loving homes for all animals in our care.
Serving Jacksonville
Since 1885.
Those served
Jacksonville and surrounding counties.
Biggest challenge
Fundraising. We have a $12 million capital campaign under way to build an Adoption and Education Center along with a Community Animal Hospital. Three years ago, April 7, 2007, a devastating fire ripped through the buildings of the Jacksonville Humane Society. Firefighters, emergency workers, police officers and concerned citizens rushed to the scene. Eighty-six animals died in the blaze, but more than 80 dogs and cats escaped the fire. From the ashes of this horrific tragedy, a community came together. People from around the city brought donations to the organization, offered their homes to foster animals and opened their hearts to the needs of homeless dogs and cats. A new awareness was born, reiterating the mission of the Jacksonville Humane Society. Just as JHS turned to the community for assistance after the fire, the people of Jacksonville now look to JHS for all companion-animal related issues, such as pet-behavior concerns, humane education training and the practice of responsible pet ownership.
Biggest satisfaction
Watching families have life-changing experiences after adopting a pet.
Hometown
Born in Manhattan, New York City. Lived in Jacksonville since I was 5 years old.
First experience with community service
That would have been in the fourth grade when my class raised money for a family who would not be having a joyous Thanksgiving. We gave our allowances and bought a big basket of food. We each wrote a note wishing the family a happy holiday. I will tell you that I felt I had gotten more of a gift than they did. That was the beginning of a life of realizing you get more when you give than when you receive.
Your job before the Jacksonville Humane Society
Executive director of the Jericho School; executive director of the Greater Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament; vice president, Florida National Banks of Florida Inc.
Upcoming events
The 11th Annual Fur Ball Gala, “A Night at the Oscars,” is 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. May 15 at the Omni.
On Aug, 13, the 2010 Toast to the Animals wine-tasting will take place at the Omni.
Contact information
www.Jaxhumane.org or [email protected] or call 725-8766, ext. 201.