In Renee's honor. Therapy Animals 4 Mental Health

Let's make a difference in Renee's name, and honor her last wish. Renee Vilmin would spend her limited time and money on anyone in need. Let's channel Renee's love for others!

Money raised will benefit Anderson Humane Elgin in connection with Heritage Woods Batavia Assisted Living Residents. The initial goal of $3100 will cover animal visitation to Heritage Woods once a month for a year and cover GoFundMe fees. IF we can double the goal, that would double the frequency. Time runs out fast, so let's positively impact someone in their last stage of life!

Those that knew Renee knew that she was the kindest and most loving person that God could offer. She had a particular love for animals and spent most of her years fostering and caring for animals. As she got older, she moved to Heritage Woods. Her health prevented her from being able to have and care for animals. It pained her not to be able to be around animals and we did our best to physically get her to places where she could engage, as mobility was a challenge. Now and then, Heritage Woods was able to bring therapy animals to the facility. Due to cost and lack of access to animals, many older adults who love animals don't get to spend time with them. That is why we are raising money. We are supporting residents at Heritage Woods to have greater access to animals, while supporting a local organization that offers a place of refuge and second chances for thousands of animals. That increase in visitation time is so important, as animals can help with many things. Studies show that positive interactions with a friendly companion animal can help improve health in a wide variety of ways, including:

• decreased anxiety and depression

• reduced stress levels

• lowered blood pressure

• increased social interaction

• improved cardiovascular health

• strengthened immune systems

More information about Anderson Humane: Anderson strives to create mutually beneficial connections between people and animals through programs that raise awareness and inspire kindness, empathy, and respect throughout our community.

More information about Heritage Woods Batavia: Heritage Woods is committed to touching lives by providing dignified lifestyles enhanced by the values of love, compassion and dignity with a diversity statement of intentionally co-creating a culture of belonging and equity.

Any donation will help make an impact. Thanks in advance for your contribution.

Renee and her family thank you for making an impact in the community that Renee grew up in! As Renee would sign off... GBU (God Bless yoU)