12 MARCH 2025 With around 60 employees and a dedicated team of volunteers, Heidi’s Village maintains a high standard of animal care. One unique aspect of Heidi’s Village is its Smitten Kitten Nursery, developed specifically to provide specialized care for neonatal kittens. Operating 24/7, the nursery cares for nearly 500 newborns annually, offering round-the-clock bottle feeding, medical care, and socialization. Once they grow strong and independent, they graduate to the Meow Motel, where they continue to receive enrichment before finding forever homes. In addition to direct animal care, Heidi’s Village collaborates with rescue organizations to host specialized events such as spay/neuter clinics and wellness services for underserved communities. By providing low-cost options, Heidi’s Village helps expand access to essential veterinary care, reducing pet overpopulation and improving the overall well-being of animals in the community. “As they celebrate five years, the organization is eager to expand its efforts. “We are always looking for ways to grow, support more rescues, and develop innovative solutions to challenges in animal welfare,” Wahl said. “Every pet deserves a chance at a joyful life.” Families are welcome to come out and celebrate the fifth anniversary by attending Heidi’s Village’s Open House on April 5 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The event will show attendees firsthand how Heidi’s Village is transforming animal welfare, and asks them to be part of the mission to house, heal, and promote Arizona’s most vulnerable animals. heidisvillage.org By Eliana Ganz Five years ago, Virginia “Ginny” Jontes envisioned a sanctuary where animal rescues could collaborate and maximize their efforts to save more lives. This vision came to life in 2020 with the opening of Heidi’s Village, which rapidly became a beacon of hope for Arcadia’s animal welfare community. “Heidi’s Village isn’t a shelter or rescue. It’s a support system for rescues,” Development Director Lori Wahl said. “We provide affordable resources to over 100 businesses and community organizations, helping them house, heal, and promote the animals in their care.” The inspiration behind Heidi’s Village stemmed from a deeply personal experience. In 2005, while working in real estate, Jontes met Joan, a widow concerned about her beloved schnauzer, Heidi. The pair established a strong bond, and Joan made Jontes promise to care for Heidi if she was unable to do so. When Joan fell ill in 2010, Jontes fulfilled her promise and welcomed Heidi into her home, caring for her until the dog’s passing in 2016. This experience shaped Jontes’ commitment to animal welfare. Heidi’s Village is situated on a five-acre property and focuses on collaboration and community. They provide affordable resources such as veterinary care, behavioral support, and grooming services to struggling rescues. High fives for those with four paws at Heidi’s Village Heidi’s Village volunteers Alex, Sheridan, Nate and Makhia with Russell the dog. The Smitten Kitten Nursery offers round-the-clock care for newborns. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LORI WAHL CELEBRATE MIM’S 15 TH ANNIVERSARY! Fri., Sat. & Sun., April 4, 5 & 6 | 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Embark on a musical journey around the globe with diverse performances, hands-on learning experiences, and thrilling musical encounters. Presented by MIM.org | 480.478.6000 | 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix, AZ

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