If you know anything about Kolbeco, you know that we are a dog friendly workplace. That all started 10 years ago when a young, smart, creative graphic designer came in for a job interview. The Kolbeco team fell in love with her and her work and knew that they wanted her on our team. That person was Erin Celuch. She had a stipulation when accepting her role as graphic designer. She wanted to bring her dog, Scarlett, with her to work. And that’s where it all began. Here we are, years later, with on average 6 dogs in the office every day. And it’s all thanks to Erin.
Erin has been involved with animal rescue for over 12 years. You can find her at Stray Rescue adoption events, fostering and aiding countless dogs for numerous local animal rescues including Stray Rescue, Partners 4 Pets, Gateway Pet Guardians, Needy Paws and the Feral Companion, and is on the advisory board at Five Acres Animal Shelter. She kickstarted our Frills for Furbabies campaign and has the drive and compassion for animal rescue that you simply will not find in another human. She has made a difference in hundreds of pets lives, and we are lucky to have her not only on our team, but also as a friend and an animal advocate.
We are not alone in recognizing Erin’s community service. At the New Year for the Stray’s Trivia Night this past weekend, Erin was named the “Pet Welfare Partner of the Year”! We are all so extremely proud of Erin and the support she has given the St. Louis animal rescue community. She is truly an inspiration.
Here’s a note from Erin on what this award means to her:
“Words can’t express how honored I am to have received the Pet Welfare Partner of the Year award at the New Year for Strays Event last night. Animal rescue is truly a team effort and to takes many to save one. I am blessed to have family and friends that support me and my efforts and to have an amazing family in the rescue community. Over the past 12 years I have had the honor of meeting the most passionate and giving people I have ever known. People who will step up to help a stranger, people who donate their time, money, supplies…all for a common good. Thank you to those who nominated me, and to the committee for selecting me. I was completely shocked and it is nice to be appreciated for something I love to do. I don’t feel like what I do is anything extraordinary – it is part of who I am. I would love to list all the folks who have been a part of this journey but the list would be incredibly long. I love you all.”
Along with the award, Erin received $500 that she could donate to a charity of her choice. She donated to Partners 4 Pets to help fund the ACL surgery of one of Erin’s former foster pups.
Congratulations, Erin! We can’t think of anyone who deserves this award more than you. Thank you for everything you do to make a positive difference in the lives of St. Louis’ neediest pets. You are their voice and their constant support, and for that, we are all grateful.
