It's been a tough year for the Jefferson County SPCA, with both the pandemic and leadership changes. However, the organization's new director believes things are headed in the right direction and is hoping some fun ideas can help ensure its future.

What You Need To Know

  • The Jefferson County SPCA, like many others, is trying to stay connected with people through this pandemic

  • The organization just introduced Jordan Rodriguez as its new executive director

  • The SPCA is hosting an online contest where 12 pets will be picked to be featured in the organization's 2021 calendar

Just by taking a few pictures, pet owners across Jefferson County can not only make their loved ones famous, but also help the county's SPCA at the same time. The non-profit is hosting a contest where local pets will be featured in its 2021 calendar.

"It's a really easy way to support the SPCA. It's fun for people to just kind of do it from home," SPCA Executive Director Jordan Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez is the organization's new executive director. It had a rough separation from its previous director.

She comes to the SPCA from the county's historical society. She knows it won't be easy as the pandemic grabs a stronger hold, but she's confident with what's already in place, and her community and fundraising experience will shine through.

"Between the staff that we have here, who have a lot of background in animal shelter management, we have a wonderful veterinarian staff. I think it's going to be a great fit for me," she said.

It starts with the calendar fundraiser. The SPCA is asking for a $20 donation to be considered for the calendar and then an online voting process will determine the winner. A one dollar donation allows you to vote.

"This calendar competition is our effort to try and engage people from home and make sure that they remember that we have animals that are sitting here waiting to find a place to go," Rodriguez said.

In the end, that's what it's all about. The contest runs through Sunday.