Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends
It’s magic when the collies come together. Isn’t it?!
The last few years we showed that we exhibit courage, fortitude, strength and stamina that we never knew we had and the goal that we choose, creates the large part of the foundation of our lives. Everyone can make a difference and at times; we all need hope, love and support.
My name is Flora Scheck and I’m the founder of ColliesWithoutBorders.
Collies Without Borders, (CWB) is a volunteer, non-profit organization with a unique purpose, to provide intervention services to collies and their owners who have been affected by war, natural disasters, or financial hardship. Our main objective is to provide direct help to collies in need wherever they are in the world, by extending financial assistance and help them find the courage to overcome their challenges.
Thank you to all the wonderful organizers for inviting me back to speak at the Sunnybank Gathering, where our shared love for collies brings us together year after year.
As I stand before you, I am filled with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose, fueled by the strength and compassion that emanates from this incredible community.
It’s the stories, the connection people make which makes us stronger.
Together we are strenght! Together we found hope, faith, and a unity of purpose in this troubled time.
Thank you to the collie health foundation whose mission is to fund research medical projects that will benefit the future of the collie, and educate the public and collie breeders about health issues.
So please be generous. We all benefit from it!
It has been a year since I last stood here sharing Sveta's simple story of love and hope. So much happened! I don’t have the time to tell you each story. Please join our Facebook group, check out our website to learn about us.
Few highlights of what we did and happened:
In the last 12 months , as we have entered the third year of the war in Ukraine, the resilience of our Collies and their families has been nothing short of inspiring. They are our family and they are mentally tired, money is tight, jobs are scarce, and large companies have left cities like Kharkiv, there is panic and emotional tension, there is the constant question of whether or not tomorrow will ever come.
Yet, their appreciation for life, their constant prayers for peace, their faith in their country, President and victory is inspiring.
Ukraine will win! I will make sure of it!
And we will stand with them to the end!
Sadly in the last few months we lost several collies, and with each one we felt like we lost a part of our heart and a battle. The emotional roller coaster is very draining at times on all of us, but we must shake the draining feeling and carry on.
Let me tell you about Helena, one of our most cherished rough Collies and a true champion with a lion fighting heart. Sweet Helena has been so ill; her body was failing her for reasons we couldn't comprehend. But we stepped up. With your support, we were able to cover her blood transfusions, and she began to recover. Helena is with us today because of you, our loyal supporters.
Helena’s mom wanted to contribute to our fundraising to give back. She is a true artist, crafting incredible flowers from collie fluff.
Please come to see some of her incredible work.
The recipients of our aid are strong and resilient, united with us by our common bond—our love for the Collie breed. We must protect these beloved dogs and their breeding lines here and in Europe.
Our call for help has been answered by many, and every dollar raised through sponsorship has been dedicated to supporting the people and Collies of Ukraine. We have held a number of fundraising events throughout the last 12 months.
More recently we discovered a very talented Ukrainian Artisan who crafted us a special cane with collie handle. By purchasing these canes you help artists in Ukraine survive and help us support collies in need.
So, please visit us and look at this exquisite workmanship.
We have formed a global network of Rough Collie lovers, established our nonprofit, Collies Without Borders, and forged strong partnerships with our sister charity in the UK, Ukrainian Rough Collie Aid. Together, we are doing everything in our power to ease the suffering of the ones affected by war.
For now, Ukraine remains our focus. As winter approaches, the challenges only grow more severe. The bitter cold months demand more resources: food, medicine, and warmth for both people and dogs who have already endured so much. We need to raise more funds to get them through these harsh months. Your generosity today can help us ensure that no Collie, or their dedicated owners, goes without the support they desperately need.
Moreover, our commitment extends beyond Ukraine.
We have also been assisting Rough Collies here in the United States, ensuring they receive proper care and finding loving homes for those in need. Our mission is truly without borders, and every donation helps us extend our reach further.
Few months ago we learned about Emmett, a collie who was rescued from an heartbreaking neglect situation and he is in the capable hands of Dara Riley who is the director of coastal sheltie & collie rescue VA. He is adored by all and I’m pleased to report he learned to wag his tail and ask for treats, and his eyes have a glimmer of happiness. Soon he will need a special loving home. CWB is committed to support financially Emmett until he is safely placed in the right home.
I admit I’m in shock to learn how many collies need to find a loving home. It’s simply incredible.
Please become familiar with your collie rescue, it is hard work, they are all volunteers and every rescue is in need of fosters and of course forever homes.
At CWB our mission is far from over, and we need your help now more than ever. By visiting our website you can learn more about our efforts and find ways to contribute, whether through donations, shopping, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.
Together, we can make a difference. We can bring hope to those who need it most and ensure that every Collie in the world continue to receive the care and love they deserve. Let us unite in this mission, driven by our passion and our shared commitment to these incredible dogs.
Thank you for your love, generosity and friendship.
I would like to close with a message from Sveta and Zlatushka :
“The power of human thought is unique, and the prayers that each of you send to us and our native Ukraine are invaluable. Together we are POWER !! Good always defeats Evil .. it just takes a little time, strength and faith to go through it. Everything will be fine!
I love you my dear Collie family. Thank you from all Ukrainian collies.
You make a huge difference in our lives. You give us hope.”
And before I go, I would love to say a big thank you to my extraordinary board. I could’ve never done it without their help, encouragement and support! It’s my pleasure to introduce you:
Noralee Smiley -Director & Membership Manager
Cathy Vellucci - Director & Marketing
Kerry Boyce - Treasurer
Holly Davenport - Board Secretary & our wizard Website Manager
Ronaele Salisbury and Denise Parry - our Facebook moderators
And all the way in England, Jules Pearson - who is the Founder of our branch sister, Ukranian Rough Collie Aid in UK
Please Join us. Join your state collie rescue, please get involved.
Thank you.
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