FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Community Relations and Education Specialist Peggy Bender will retire from Fort Wayne Animal Care and Control as of September 1st, 2014. Belinda Lewis, the Director for Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control made the announcement Tuesday afternoon.

Bender was hired as the shelter’s first Community Relations & Education Specialist in 1985. For 29 years Bender has pioneered and established numerous outreach programs for the Department.

“Working for Animal Care & Control and for the welfare of animals will always be greater than a career,” said Bender. “It’s been a cause and a passion that I’ve shared with some of the most caring and dedicated people that anyone could have the privilege to know. From professional colleagues to the animal-loving community kind enough to share their stories, laughter and tears and to the thousands of animals that I was blessed to help, each have given special moments and meaning to my life.”

“Our department and the community have been fortunate to have had Peggy serving in the position of Community Relations & Education Specialist for 29 years,” said Lewis. “She has excelled in every endeavor and brought national recognition to our shelter for the many education and outreach programs she has developed during her career. She will be greatly missed.”

Bender will step down to work as Creative Director in nonprofit video marketing. She will be replaced through the promotion of the current volunteer coordinator of six years, Jodi Hamilton.

The public is invited to stop by Animal Care & Control on Friday, August 22 between 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. for a farewell reception.