Citizens for Off-Leash Areas K9COLA

Volunteer

06/28/08: Everyone, we are discouraged to report that the K9COLA Board of Directors has lost three of its valued and active members due to flood- related stresses. As of this writing, the park Board is only three members strong.

WE MAY NO LONGER HAVE A PARK IF WE CANNOT GET MORE PEOPLE TO HELP WITH THE BOARD AND WITH THE PARK RECOVERY EFFORTS.

Most of you are or have been permit holders at the park. As we think you know, the Cheyenne Park off-leash area was devastated by the recent flooding. While we await further word from the city and FEMA on the results of soil sample testing, testing of water in the fountain, and many other safety issues, we need to start considering the future of the park.

Some of the possibilities we foresee include:
  • 1) The city may no longer be willing to support a park at the current location.
  • 2) The city may or may not be able to offer alternative locations.
  • 3) The park may continue to be available in a radically different format -- possibly without fences.
  • 4) All or none of the above.


    • With any of these possibilities (or any not yet on the table), will come a great many decisions, design planning on behalf of permit holders and park users, and lots of fundraising and public education.

    None of this can happen with only three people. There are over 600 members of this email list. Now is the time for you to step forward and show your support for the park beyond simply purchasing a permit. If we want there to be an off-leash park in the Cedar Rapids area, we MUST now come together to make it happen!

    We need many of you to become more active park citizens; PLEASE step up to the plate now and get involved in K9COLA. There has never been a better time, or a time when your help has been more vital. We need people to consider running for empty positions on the Board, to volunteer for clean-up (or re-design) efforts, and to make your voices heard!

    WE MAY NOT HAVE A PARK AT ALL IF WE CANNOT GET MORE PEOPLE TO HELP WITH THESE EFFORTS.

    The Board pleads with you to become involved for the sake of your dogs, yourselves, and your community!

    Contact any existing Board member or support person to find out what you can do:

    Searching NOW for volunteers for the following events: K9COLA welcomes volunteers for many projects! Join in the fun and help make the Park even better. There are countless ways to help. Pick the things that sound like the most fun for you. Or, suggest other ways you think you could help! There's always something to do.

    Here are some ideas to get you started. This list is limited only by your imagination -- be creative about how you can help.
    • Get involved on a committee, such as Public Education.
    • Join the stalwart group who helps with Park maintenance by emptying the trash cans.
    • Help pull weeds along the fence or on the trail.
    • Join in special events, such as marching in the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade!
    • Answer questions at Information Tables set up periodically at local stores and events.
    • Get involved on the Board of Directors -- run for an office!
    • Come to a work day and help with many projects, small and large, at the park.
    • Help keep the poop bag holders filled with empty bags.
    • Help plant trees!
    • Water plants and trees in the warm weather months.
    • Join in to help with building projects.
    • Be a Park Information Rover, talking to Park visitors, answering questions, checking to make sure dogs have current permit tags, etc.
    • Solicit donations from local stores and companies for K9COLA's raffles and auctions.
    • Help with the newsletter!
    Contact K9COLA and volunteer today! Your dog will love you for it.