Family man. Pioneering business man. Philanthropist.An inspiring life, lived over 100 years. The Wayside Waifs' Family mourns the passing of Board Chairman Emeritus Harold Melcher on February 16, 2020. His vision, leadership, and business sense helped transform Wayside Waifs from a struggling animal shelter to a nationally recognized pet adoption campus.
Harold's vision and philanthropic activities were instrumental in creating Wayside's Rescue & Response Team, expanding the innovative No More Bullying! education curriculum that is now taught in 23 states, implementing a highly successful direct marketing response program, providing donor matching opportunities that have inspired and challenged others to give generously, and so much more.
He will be remembered as one of the most important leaders in our shelter's history. Through his efforts, hundreds of thousands of homeless animal lives have been saved, more than 30,000 children have been taught life-changing lessons in compassion, empathy, and respect, and hundreds of animal welfare leaders have been inspired to carry his vision and spirit forward.
Thank you Harold for 20+ years of friendship, support, and vision. You will be deeply missed. The world is a better, more compassionate place because of you.
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