GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (April 20, 2023) - The Kent County Board of Commissioners accepted a $90,000 donation this morning from the Marie B. Schipper Trust to the Kent County Animal Shelter. This gift to the Kent County Animal Shelter is thought to be the largest single donation ever made to the department.
Schipper, a Kent County resident, died November 28, 2021 at age 85. Sheryl Schipper, who is Marie Schipper's niece and executor of the estate, was in attendance at the Board of Commissioners meeting. "I am sure my aunt is beaming in heaven looking down and seeing what is going on," said Schipper, who described her aunt as a life-long animal lover.
Maire B Schipper was born on Valentines Day,1936. The youngest of seven children, she grew up on a farm in Newaygo County. She spent her professional career as an executive secretary with numerous companies in West Michigan. Schipper enjoyed reading, music, and made several trips to see the Gaither Family perform gospel music. Sheryl Schipper said, "She was really good person who loved animals and wanted to help all of them."
A portion of the donation - $49,594 - will be used to construct a large natural enclosure for the enrichment of our shelter dogs. "This new space will provide exercise, scent enrichment, and will help increase the well-being and health of the animals entrusted to our care," said Kent County Animal Shelter Director Angela Hollinshead. "This enclosure will help reduce the stress that many animals develop while living in a shelter."
Another set of funds - $26,500 - are earmarked to replace a 24 year old X-ray machine that still uses film and requires frequent maintenance to stay in operation. "One of our most important tools in veterinary care is the X-ray machine," says Hollinshead. "Using current technology will improve efficiencies in care while it reduces stress on injured animals through quicker diagnosis and faster access to care." The remaining funds will be set aside for the emergency care of animals.
"I know that my aunt would be very happy to know that part of her legacy will be used to care for animals," said Sheryl Schipper. "She had so many cats and dogs throughout her years and they all brought her great joy."
"It is humbling to think that someone was so impressed by our operation and mission that they would make this gift as one of their last acts," said Hollinshead. "We consider it an honor and our duty to carry on the work that Marie considered so important to our community."
People who are interested in leaving behind a legacy of care and compassion for animals are encouraged to learn more about the Kent County Animal Shelter and to work closely with their estate planners to ensure their wishes are met.
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