Local Swimmers Help Michigan Humane Society

Swimmers Strive to Help Coach, Community and Animals

Michigan Humane Society Receives Donation

LAKE ORION, MICHIGAN-- Liquid Lightning, a swim club based out of Lake Orion, Michigan, recently started a new tradition of using Team Picture Day as an opportunity to give back to their community.

“When nearly 200 swimmers work together to make the world a better place, the results are impressive,” said Liquid Lightning Head Coach Ray Onisko.

This year’s drive was for a very special cause, the Michigan Humane Society.

Last month, Liquid Lightning Assistant Coach Jim Steffl suffered the loss of his daughter, Meghan. As a lover of animals and supporter of the Humane Society, Meghan’s family requested that memorial tributes go to the Humane Society in her honor. The team decided this year their Team Picture Donation Drive would also be in honor of Meghan and in support of their coach.

“Meghan adopted Jerry, Howard and Harley (her “kitties”) from the Michigan Humane Society, and she would be very pleased and thankful for these donations,” Assistant Coach Jim Steffl said.

On March 2-- Team Picture Day-- the athletes gathered to give more than just a smile. The swimmers purchased and donated cat and dog food, treats, chews and toys, along with kitty litter, fleece blankets, collars, leashes and cleaning supplies. An entire minivan was filled and delivered to the Rochester Hills location. In addition, $100 cash donation was made to the Michigan Humane Society in Meghan’s memory.

“Every donation that comes to the Michigan Humane Society makes a difference for the homeless animals in our care. Whether it’s a warm and fuzzy blanket for a puppy to sleep on, a fun new toy to help socialize a scared cat, or a monetary donation that helps expand our programming, they all are valuable,” said Anna Chrisman, Public Relations Coordinator at Michigan Humane Society. “We want to extend our thanks to the Liquid Lightning team for selecting MHS, and for choosing us to help honor Meghan’s legacy.”

The Michigan Humane Society (MHS) is a charitable 501(c) 3 animal welfare organization and is the largest and oldest animal welfare organization in the state, caring for tens of thousands of animals each year.

Liquid Lightning is ranked as one of Michigan’s top swim teams with a Third-place overall finish at the 12 & Under State Championships and Third-place overall finish at the 13-14 Open State Championships. They are State Record Holders for the Girls 13-14 400 Free Relay and have seven State Champions.