Tanya Willis (right) and Chris Bryant (left) decided to start Agape Animal Rescue as a way to help the animals in the best way possible. This means staying small and always asking themselves, “what is best for the animals,” before making decisions.

Chris has been volunteering with rescue groups for over 10 years and Tanya for more than 4 years. After volunteering with several different groups, separately and together, Chris and Tanya decided they had a specific way they thought adoptions and rescues should be handled. Also, the rescue Tanya and Chris volunteered with previously concentrated on one specific breed. They wanted the opportunity to rescue all breeds and cats, so Agape was formed! (Pronounced: AH-GOP-A)

After forming a network of foster homes and contacts, they chartered this non-profit and were approved for their 501c3 status. This 501c3 status is also attractive to companies that will match their employee’s contributions to non-profit groups with this qualification.

Agape has been a strong force in the community since it was started in June of 2004. The group has held youth education programs, low-income spay/neuter operations, and works hard to educate the public on a daily basis. They also help displaced animals every day. With the help of several volunteers, we are able to foster pets in a safe and happy home until they are placed in their “forever” homes. We host animal adoption days at the local Pet Smart locations, rescue animals from abusive or neglectful situations, provide routine Veterinarian attention and pay for advanced medical attention, such as surgery and medicines.

People ask, “Where do you find these animals?” The answer varies greatly. They could be the dog that is the product of a divorce. The one pulled from an animal shelter or the one found in a parking lot or on the side of the road. There are too many animals in this area in need of homes for one group to be able to help but, together, we can make a difference.

Please spay or neuter your animals and don’t add to the over population problem. If you have any questions, would like more information on Agape , would like to make a contribution or are interested in adopting a pet, please contact: tanya@agaperescue.org