For the past three years, Lise Oikle has used her artistic talent to make a huge impact for animals in need in Cornwall.
Throughout the year, Lise takes one to two pet portrait commissions per month. She says she’s been painting for 13 years but had the idea three years ago to put her commissions into a calendar to support animals at the Ontario SPCA Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre.
“That’s how I came up with this idea, because I’ve always helped animals as much as I can,” says Lise.
Every year, Lise gives up her weekends for two months leading up to Christmas, selling her calendars at stores across Cornwall. Her first year she raised $985, then $5,100, and this year, $6,885.
She says each portrait takes about 80 hours to paint. Facing her own physical challenges, she says painting is like therapy for her.
“I’m in terrible pain, but when I’m painting, because I love it so much, it helps me forget my pain,” says Lise.
Lise says her favourite part about supporting the animal centre is knowing she is part of giving these animals a second chance.
“When I see some of these pets that end up at the Ontario SPCA, and then I hear how they got adopted and that they went to a good family – oh, that’s so nice to hear!” says Lise.
Arianne Kirkey, Community Outreach Coordinator at the Stormont, Dundas & Glengarry Animal Centre, says she and the rest of the team are inspired by Lise’s incredible dedication to animals.
“Lise is a true animal lover. I have never met anyone as passionate about saving animals and promoting good homes and adoption for animals,” says Arianne.
As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA on the generosity of supporters like Lise to provide care and shelter to animals in need.
“Lise’s donation and impact at the centre are immeasurable,” says Arianne.
Lise says she hopes to continue the fundraiser this year, but that she’ll need support to help her physically with the long weekends selling her calendars. She says she also hopes to visit senior homes with her calendars.
“If I could get some help, just think how much more we could help these animals,” says Lise.
Learn more about how you can support your local animal centre here.
You can also be a hero for animals that need it most with the Ontario SPCA a’s DIY fundraising platform Humane Hero. To learn more or to register your fundraiser, visit ontariospca.ca/humanehero.
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