Kathy Copeland

I am a retired special education teacher, with 30 years to my credit. My area of specialization was in working directly with students with behavioral and emotional disorders, and during the last 3 years of my career, I provided consulting services district wide for the Lawrence Public Schools. I became aware of Always and Furever sometime in 2022 from postings on Facebook. I’ve always wanted to be a useful participant in animal rescue, and Always and Furever absolutely drew me in with their mission of providing second chances for pets who were largely discarded; I saw so many similarities to the amazing students I’d had the privilege of serving and the need for second chances. I attended the Conditional Use Permit hearings that Miami County denied. Having once lived on property near Louisburg that seemed to be a magnet for dumped animals, I had hoped the county might have evolved in how companion animals are treated. I was sorely disappointed. With the Imagine A Dream campaign to purchase the land and buildings in KCMO, I knew it was time for me to jump in and do whatever I can to make change. So here I am, ready and willing to learn, to support, and fight for that change. The incredible people who are part of this organization inspire me every day. I am so proud to be included in this endeavor.