Forte Animal Rescue held a fundraiser for neglected and orphaned animals at Maggiano’s Little Italy on June 2, 2008. At this event, Los Angeles City Councilmember Dennis Zine presented an award on behalf of the City to the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by Marie Atake, a former City Commissioner.
Councilmember Zine stated, “It’s unfortunate that Marie is no longer a Commissioner for the city. But we are still working together to help the homeless and neglected animals in our quest to become a no-kill city.”
Last September, Councilmember Bill Rosendahl presented a Certificate of Recognition to Ms. Atake, for her service to the community, and presented a second award to her humane charity.
Ms. Atake was appointed to the Board of LA Animal Services Commission by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in 2005, and served two full years on this volunteer post. Through her tenure, she received unprecedented, unified support from Department employees and the humane community alike.
Each year, Forte Animal Rescue makes a positive impact on the animals and community. “I am proud to say that over the past 6 years, we have grown to a group of more than a hundred volunteers, and saved nearly 800 animals,” Ms. Atake said.
She also stated, “A recent study by the National Counsel on Pet Population shows that over 56% of dogs and puppies entering the pounds nationwide are destroyed. With this alarming information, our adoption program will continue to be a focal point of our organization. We also work with local vets, as well as political and community leaders to educate the public on our responsibilities for the animals as fellow earthlings. Awareness is just half of the battle, and most importantly, everybody needs to take action to make a difference. That’s why we strive everyday to inspire compassion and responsibility. This can be accomplished because we all have both sentiments inside as humans.”
Forte Animal Rescue is a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit organization, seeking solutions for pet-overpopulation, as well as working together with the community to cultivate the human-animal bond through educational programs and activities.
(Photo of Marie with former LAPD Chief Bratton and Delilah, the Pit Bull she rescued: by Andy Pearlman)
