<p>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE</p><p>Contact: Kerrie Leclair, Director of Development [email protected], 207-985-3244 x123 or 207-899-8131</p><p>Animal Welfare Society Hires Two Program Staff</p><p>WEST KENNEBUNK, Maine – June 25, 2013 – The Animal Welfare Society (AWS), a companion animal shelter, announced that it has hired two to its program staff. Garret Barcheski and Marie O’Brien have been hired as youth humane educator and volunteer coordinator, respectively. </p><p>Barcheski graduated from the University of New England with a degree in animal behavior. He was previously associated with Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association in Ledgewood, NJ. In his new, full-time role at AWS, Barcheski looks to grow an already successful youth program. “It has always been my dream to have the opportunity to make a difference in animal welfare, and AWS has given me a chance to do that,” said Barcheski. “With my drive, desire and enthusiasm and my passion for animal behavior, animal welfare and education, I feel I can push the education department to new heights.” Barcheski lives in Old Orchard Beach with his rat, Lafonda, and 6 month old puppy, Douglas.</p><p>AWS’ education department is a busy one. More than 4,000 area students are reached each year through in-classroom programs, after school programs and summer camps. The department works with children of all ages, including a number of at-risk high school youth. Kindness, empathy and respect are core messages taught through the program. More information about AWS’ youth programming can be found at www.animalwelfaresociety.org. </p><p>Marie O’Brien looks forward to her new role as volunteer coordinator, as well. A graduate of Elmira College, O’Brien was previously employed by both the Saco Museum and the Eastern Trail Alliance, non-profit organizations, working in fundraising, administration and volunteer management. “I am very excited and proud to be working for AWS,” said O’Brien, who had also volunteered for AWS before her hire. “I’m hoping that through my volunteer management experience, I can create an environment where volunteers can find their niche and feel supported and appreciated.” O’Brien lives in Saco with her husband, son, dog, ZuZu, cat Maisy and three foster kittens. </p><p>The volunteer program at AWS is more than 200 people strong. Volunteer duties are many, and include such activities as cleaning, socializing animals, laundry, paperwork, obedience and answering phones. Volunteers are always needed. Those interested in becoming volunteers can call Marie at 207-985-3244 or visit www.animalwelfaresociety.org for more information.</p><p>About The Animal Welfare Society The Animal Welfare Society, a non-profit organization, exists to provide humane shelter and care to companion animals temporarily in need of housing, to assist in disaster response and to further the cause of responsible animal adoption and ownership through education and public awareness. The society actively promotes kindness, the elimination of cruelty and neglect to all animals, and the lifelong commitment of people to their pets. </p><p># # #</p>