02/07/2025
Important Update To Our Derby City Dog Rescue Family,
In early 2011, we set out with a simple mission: to save as many lives as we could. Over the past 14 years, Derby City Dog Rescue has given thousands of dogs a second chance. We’ve seen the broken become whole again, the forgotten find love, and the hopeless rediscover joy. Every single one of those victories was made possible by you—our volunteers, fosters, donors, transporters, adopters, and supporters.
Together, we poured countless hours and hundreds of thousands of dollars into this mission. But no amount of money could ever equal the heart, sweat, and soul that you gave. None of this would have been possible without the selfless efforts of our volunteers. Please, never lose sight of that truth. You made the difference.
As we share this goodbye, we do so with a heavy heart and a deep understanding of the urgency facing the rescue world. Animal welfare is in crisis. Shelters are overrun. Rescue groups are stretched to the edge of collapse. There are never enough fosters, never enough space, never enough time. The calls, texts, and messages begging for help never stop.
Those who give themselves to this work live with compassion fatigue every single day. It’s an invisible weight—one that makes even the strongest among us question if we’re doing enough, if we’re making a difference at all. Let us say, without hesitation: you are. You did. You still do.
Christy and I made a promise early on—that we would stand behind every dog who came through our rescue. We’d be there for them until the very end. And we weren’t alone in that promise. While she didn’t start with us in 2011, Jimi Seger joined our journey at a crucial time—when we needed someone not just capable, but all in. And she was. Jimi has been a rock for this rescue: a volunteer, a foster, an adoption coordinator, and an all-around incredible human. She stood by us through the chaos, heartbreak, and triumphs, right up to the bitter end.
And now, in the most poetic and perfect way, Jimi has adopted our last Derby City dog, sweet Susie. Our story ends in love, in family, and in full circle.
As we close this chapter, we hope you’ll continue the mission. If you currently make recurring donations to Derby City Dog Rescue, we ask that you redirect your support to our longtime sister rescue and dear friends at Tyson's Chance Animal Foundation. That includes your Kroger Community Rewards donations as well.
Christy, Jimi, and I will continue to support Tyson’s in various capacities going forward. They have stood by us for years, and we believe deeply in their work and their heart. If anything we’ve said today has lit a spark in you—to fight for the lives and well-being of the homeless, sick, and forgotten—please reach out to Tyson’s Chance and ask how you can help.
PLEASE support them like you have supported us.
I’ve always believed that a lot of people doing just a little can create a massive impact. The dogs don’t need perfection—they need commitment, compassion, and people who care. You’ve shown up for us for 14 years. Now we ask you to show up for them.
With love and deepest gratitude,
Jeff, Christy & Jimi
Derby City Dog Rescue
