One of the many nonprofits supported by the PACF is the Doddridge County Humane Society, which is committed to promoting animal welfare.

Volunteer and board member Jacqueline Hetzner, nominated by shelter Executive Director Deborah Casteel, stands out for her unwavering dedication. After retiring from education, Jacqueline increased her involvement, transporting animals, walking dogs, assisting with adoptions, and helping with daily operations. 

"She is a busy woman,” said Casteel. “On a recent transport day, she picked up four dogs at 7:00 a.m., dropped them off, taught as a substitute teacher, and returned by 4:00 p.m. to pick up the animals."

Jacqueline’s dedication inspires others and reflects the essential teamwork behind every nonprofit. Volunteers, paid staff, board members, and donors all play vital roles in sustaining the organization’s thriving operations. Her generosity expands beyond service hours as she often donates funds directly, including recently replacing transport carriers when the wire structures became rusty and unsafe. “She doesn’t just do a job,” said Casteel. “She thinks about the entire organization and determines how she can help in the most meaningful way.”

Jacqueline says the dogs themselves are what keep her going. Even through personal hardships, including the recent passing of her own beloved dog, she continues to show up and lead by example.

“The dogs are so happy just to go on walks and smell the earth,” said Hetzner. “They often smile at me!” she shared. “Volunteering makes me feel great.”

The PACF and its regional affiliate, the Doddridge County Community Foundation (DCCF), have supported the Humane Society through grantmaking and long-term partnerships for more than two decades. Since 2016, the shelter has raised more than $55,000 through the Foundation’s annual GiveLocal MOV crowdfunding campaign. The shelter also receives help from a permanently endowed designated fund that provides annual operating support, created by a local advocate of animal welfare. Recent grants, awarded through the Foundation’s bi-annual Community Action Grant Program, have supported the installation of security cameras, re-flooring the shelter’s quarantine area, and upgrading the outdoor play yard, enhancing both safety and quality of care.

As the DCCF celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025, the Humane Society’s continued growth highlights the importance of the community’s philanthropic foresight and intentional collaboration. Through the Champions in Community series, the PACF honors people like Jacqueline, those whose compassion becomes action and whose dedication strengthens the places we care about most. Whether through setting up permanent funding sources for area needs, volunteering time, or a simple act of sharing good news, every act of generosity helps build a more connected and caring community.

For over 60 years, the DCCF and PACF have helped local charities and area changemakers do “more good” through thoughtful generosity, training, collaboration, and meaningful partnerships. To learn more about supporting the PACF and DCCF’s grantmaking or to nominate an inspiring volunteer, contact 304-428-4438 or email info@pacfwv.com.