Interview by Katherine Clark
A highly skilled media relations specialist, Tori works tirelessly behind-the-scenes to elevate the profile of EHS by generating media coverage of the shelter, our fundraising campaigns and our pets in need. Thanks to Tori’s dedication, during the past year, EHS has been featured on BT Toronto, CP24, CBC News, 680 News, The Toronto Sun, The Etobicoke Guardian and more.
Visit our "In the News" page to read and watch stories featured in the media about EHS.
I first heard about EHS when I moved to Etobicoke about seven years ago. I was looking to add a pet to my family and came across EHS during some online searching. I’ve always been a supporter of animal rescues and was really impressed by the small but mighty organization.
I love to support animal rescues, but I’ve never had the time available to volunteer at a shelter regularly. When EHS needed help with public relations, it seemed like a perfect opportunity to use my work skills to contribute to a cause I really care about. It’s rewarding to know that by raising the profile of EHS in the community, I’m helping the cats and dogs in the shelter find a forever home or raise money for their care.
One of the best ways to raise awareness about EHS is to use the media, which doesn’t cost us anything and can reach a large number of people. Through my work in public relations I’ve made many contacts with reporters, producers and editors in the city and I’ve been able to use that to our advantage. I’m always looking for stories to tell that are newsworthy – such as the case of Minerva, who made her way to the shelter after being bought on a buy and sell website and needed major heart surgery, or our fundraising campaign called Small Shelter, Big Heart that raised money to go towards shelter improvements and expanded care for the animals. These stories are how we’re able to show our shelter is different.
The best thing is watching as our animals get adopted. They’re all special in their own ways and they need our help, so while it’s really rewarding to achieve some much-needed media coverage, there’s nothing better than meeting a dog or a cat in the shelter and then seeing a happy ending. It’s just great to be a part of such a wonderful organization.
The Etobicoke Humane Society is comprised entirely of volunteers. They are the lifeblood of our organization and the reason we are able to offer services to the hundreds of rescued animals who come to our shelter each year. If you would like to join our team, please check our open positions here: Volunteer Opportunities