Following the sudden resignation of long-time Director Jill Svoboda and technical difficulties with telephone message servicing, the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan’s Yeager Family Pet Shelter will be temporarily closed to the public for a week beginning Wednesday, March 3rd.
Board Chair Ron Klemm issued a statement this afternoon addressing the departure of Svoboda who was at the helm for 13 years before resigning last week.
Klemm says, “The Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan is currently going through a change in our leadership. In spite of the difficulties in providing services during the pandemic and now the need to replace our Director who resigned this past week, we are continuing to love and care for the animals of our community.” He adds,” We thank former Director Jill Svoboda for her 13 years of service. Our staff and our Board of Directors are assuring there is no interruption of service.”
While there will be no interruption in service of the care of the animals entrusted to the no-kill shelter, Klemm reports, “However, the Humane Society will be temporarily closed to the public beginning March 3rd through March 9th.”
Regarding the current population of animals at the shelter located along M-139 south of St. Joseph, Klemm reports, “We currently care for approximately 60 dogs and over 30 cats, all of whom would love to have that special home one day. Until they do, our technicians provide tremendous care 365 days a year.” Additionally, Klemm offers the opportunity for the public to help out, saying, “Donations of food can be made at any time of any day by using the large, weather-proof chests on either side of the front door; our address is 5400 Niles Road, Saint Joseph, MI 49085. And although we are experiencing technical difficulties with our phone’s message service at the present time, our phone is staffed in person during regular business hours. Please call 269-927-3303 during normal business hours for information about how to make your donation.”
There was no immediate indication as to why Svoboda tendered her resignation, and attempts to reach her for comment have been unsuccessful.
