In Roatan, Honduras there is a dedicated team that is fighting for the safety and well-being of the local animals and community. Behind the magic is a passionate animal lover, Janessa Baar, who overcame her personal struggles to make this dream a reality.
In 2007, Janessa found herself immersed in the darkness of a pain killer addiction. After a series of painful back surgeries, she became addicted to the opioids that were prescribed to her and continued to struggle in her abuse for almost 7 years.
Janessa knew she was made for something so much more, and finally took control of her life. When celebrating her fifth year of sobriety, she decided to use her passions to make a difference in the world.
When previously visiting the island of Roatan with her husband, she saw the immense struggles of the locals and the stray animals. This Central American Island was facing devastating poverty in their community, and the local animals faced severe neglect. They visited as often as they could for this reason and tried to offer as much help as possible during their stays.
Each time the couple went home, they found themselves continuously thinking about the island, and how badly they wanted to make a difference. In December 2018, with their two pugs and cat in hand, they made the big move to Roatan. Soon after, The Roatan Rescue was born.
The Roatan Rescue is a non-profit organization, dedicated to the community and animals of the island. With a fierce love of children and animals, Janessa knew she wanted this rescue to reflect her core values.
Janessa was able to secure some land on the island, which is now the headquarters to the humble rescue. What started out as daily food walks around the island to feed the strays blossomed into a full time rescue dedicated to education, wellness, and rehabilitation to those in need.
Janessa and her team of dedicated volunteers know that the key to animal wellness starts with proper education. She does her best to educate the locals on preventative care and treatment of the stray dogs and cats, and offers assistance to those who can’t afford care for their pets.
Roatan Rescue now has more than 30 animals in their care, which they are avidly working to find international forever homes. This dedicated team of animal advocates has helped to change the lives of so many.
“You can’t change the world, but you can change the world for that one dog.”
Aside from their work for the animals of Roatan are the efforts to support the children of the island. With community outreach, they help to sponsor local children to get them to school and help them obtain the education that they deserve.
Janessa and her team work tirelessly to better the lives of all who call the island of Roatan their home. With her dedication to the cause, she will undoubtedly change the world!
If you would like to donate to the efforts of the Roatan Rescue and help the community of Roatan, Honduras, you can donate here.
H/T: Fox17online.com
Featured Photo: Facebook.com/roatanrescue/
Toledo, United States.
