This severely emaciated dog was first brought to Isaiah 11 Ministry’s animal rescue on Wednesday. Isaiah 11 is in need of sponsors to help support its mission to rescue both animals, and people with professional counseling services.

Saving animals from death and suffering takes a special person. It also takes a special person to sacrifice for those animals.

Linda Ozier, executive director of Isaiah 11 Ministry, has long maintained a cat rescue at her home – and now at her new facility at 6256 W. 100 N., Warsaw.

Sometimes it is difficult to talk to a professional counselor and often it is difficult to care for animals in need. But, through her unique ministry, Ozier helps people help animals through counseling, life-coaching and even tutoring.

Ozier specializes in helping children in need, but has touched lives of adults, individuals and even families through her unique work; and it has all resulted in healing.

Ozier explained how, through her cat rescue, one day she had to bring newborn kittens to work with her because the mother cat had died. One of her clients, a rather withdrawn little boy who had suffered abuse from his estranged father, was having a hard time staying calm while talking about the abuse.

The little boy had learned that striking out by kicking, yelling or hitting was the “norm.” But on the day he came to Ozier for help, he held a kitten that was so vulnerable and needy, that his tendencies shifted and he was suddenly able to reach out and finally talk about the abuse.

Today, Ozier needs to raise $1,000 for her non-profit organization to continue helping both people and animals. The ministry currently has three rescue horses, three goats, chickens, a small donkey, bunnies, dogs, ducks, a pot belly pig and, of course, many cats.

“We will not turn anyone away based on ability to pay,” Ozier said. “Thus, we are a faith-based ministry that relies on the generosity of compassionate individuals, churches and businesses to fund our activities.”

To raise funds, I am teaming with Ozier to offer a challenge to the community. Ozier has agreed to consume a can of cat food if she can raise a total of $1,000 by 4 p.m. today. I have agreed to help her – and also indulge in the activity – if that $1,000 goal is reached. Currently, we are about $600 short.

Donations can be made online at Isaiah 11 Ministry, or may be mailed to Isaiah 11 Ministry, 6256 W. 100 N., Warsaw, IN 46580. Isaiah 11 is a 501c3 organization so all donations are tax-deductible.

Linda and I will eat a can of cat food and will video the event for donors.

Do you have a challenge for your organization and want my help to promote it? Email me at [email protected]