The LEAF Program is a new outreach program administered by representatives of The Forsyth County Department of Animal Control
and the Forsyth Humane Society. Due to the magnitude and the complexity of the animal welfare situation in Forsyth County we
felt that a program that is able to mold itself to fit the needs of every member of our community was necessary.
The starting point of the program is our awareness campaign. Wristbands and Logo Tags will be available at FHS and FCAC.
We are also inviting everyone to sign their name on a canvas leaf that will be incorporated into an art project scheduled for
unveiling at The Forsyth Humane Society’s Art Unleashed Parade and Street Fair. Art Unleashed takes place on April 26, 2008.
This is just the beginning. We intend to use the LEAF Program as a flexible tool that can be used for humane education in
schools, while still meeting the standard curriculum required. For instance, an English teacher could incorporate the LEAF
program into a poetry lesson featuring Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass. Art teachers could use the program to spark creativity.
Social Studies teachers could use it to teach students the meaning and the power of advocacy on a grass roots level. Animal
welfare is a subject that is full of passion. Teachers could use their passion for animal welfare to pique the interest of
disconnected students.
How will this end animal fighting?
It won’t, not by tomorrow anyway. It is a starting point. It’s something we can all use to suit our needs. It could be as
simple as wearing a wristband to show support or designing an 8 hour presentation for a veterinary school on the history of
animal abuse in the US and its financial impact on local government. LEAF isn’t just an animal fighting campaign. Animal
issues of any kind can be addressed by the LEAF concept.
How can the community get involved?
Be creative! There is no limit to what can be done through compassion and creativity. No idea is too crazy or too plain.
In other words, doing something, anything is better than doing nothing at all.
Who can we contact for more information?
The Forsyth Humane Society: 336-721-1303
The Forsyth County Department of Animal Control: 336-703-2480
Where can we get LEAF materials?
Forsyth Humane Society
61 Miller Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27104
The Forsyth County Department of Animal Control
5570 Sturmer Park Circle
Winston-Salem, NC 27105
What if I have a great idea that I’d like to contribute to the program?
We’d love to hear about it! Your contributions can be added to the collective pool of information and advocacy resources that
we would like to make available to all animal welfare groups and individuals everywhere.
You may also use the LEAF logo and materials freely. The idea is to empower ourselves and to enable everyone to contribute
in whatever way they can.
What kind of assistance can I get from FCAC or FHS?
We are happy to provide speakers for school programs, educational materials, the community room at The Forsyth County Animal
Shelter is also available by appointment to teachers and animal welfare organizations for meetings or training sessions.
I’d like to bring my students to the shelter for part of a lesson I’m teaching. Is that possible?
Certainly! Contact us at the numbers above. We will try to accommodate your request.
Can I donate money to support the program?
Absolutely! Donations may be sent to Forsyth Humane Society or at the address above. Write LEAF in the memo section on your
check.
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