Donor Story, Renee and Doug Leuthold

Renee and Doug Leuthold met with Community Development Director Tracey McConnell on November 14th to learn more about the Verde Valley Sanctuary (VVS). They asked a lot of great questions! Who knew they would propose giving $50,000 to help us raise more funds for our important work? What an extraordinary gift for us to receive! So we asked them to share their giving story with you, our friends of the VVS.

How did you first hear about our organization? An event at Mary D. Fisher Theater.

What made you decide to give your first gift? We initially started considering giving to VVS because we believe in their mission, but our commitment to give came after meeting with Tracey McConnell and learning more about the organization including the services offered, the number of people helped, and the strategic plan for continuous improvement and growth to benefit their clients.

Why do you enjoy giving to Verde Valley Sanctuary? Renee was a volunteer for abused children for almost 20 years, plus we have a family member who experienced spousal abuse, so we have a special place in our hearts for domestic violence victims. We appreciate organizations such as VVS who not only offer a safe harbor but help victims change their lives to be able to be safe, healthy & self-sufficient.

What do you hope to accomplish through your philanthropy? God has blessed us in many ways, so we want to share our blessings with our community and hopefully help others change their lives and move forward in a positive direction.

If you were talking to someone else about giving to the Sanctuary, what would you tell them? We are telling our friends about VVS and encouraging them to get involved whether it is through donations or volunteering. First and foremost because we believe every domestic violence victim deserves the right to be safe, healthy, and happy, secondly because VVS has a very thoughtful strategic plan utilizing all donations wisely.

Than you, Renee and Doug!