The Supreme Master Ching Hai
By San Jose, USA News Group (Originally in English)
On the morning of Saturday, February 2, 2019, our Association members from the San Jose Center visited the For Other Living Things pet store in Sunnyvale, CA. They went to present the Shining World Compassion Award and a loving contribution of USD$15,000 from our beloved Supreme Master Ching Hai to Ms. Heather Bechtel, founder and executive director of The Rabbit Haven. The non-profit educational organization assists animal shelters and rescues, also helps educate the public and children in particular, about rabbit care and the importance of taking responsibility of a pet for life.
The Rabbit Haven was founded in 1987, the year of the Rabbit in the Chinese Zodiac. How remarkable it is that the group’s dedicated team has served and cared for our furry friends for more than 30 years! They also conduct annual visits to bunnies at foster homes during the holidays, just to bring the animals extra warmth and love in the compassionate Christmas spirit.
On February 2, The Rabbit Haven staff held their monthly Sunnyvale adoption show. Ms. Bechtel and her team were graciously able fit us into their busy schedule. We were deeply honored to present her with the Award, and were also lucky to meet Geno, one of the rabbits that was up for adoption that day.
The Rabbit Haven team also hosts two other adoption shows each month in Soquel, CA. It’s remarkable knowing the group helps to foster and adopt more than 600-700 bunnies every year with an 87% placement rate, thanks to 19,000 loving hours of volunteer support annually.
Ms. Bechtel expressed her appreciation to Supreme Master Ching Hai and was humbly grateful on receiving the prestigious Shining World Compassion Award, adding that the contribution came at the right time, adding she planned to use the funds for supplies and services to continue their blessed efforts saving precious animal lives. She also took a moment to thank Loving Hut Santa Clara and Loving Hut Oakridge for participating in the 2018 Bunnyfest through a contribution of delicious vegan food. It’s no surprise that being a longtime animal advocate, Heather is also a vegan.
We’re deeply thankful for the chance to bring Master’s love and appreciation to Ms. Heather Bechtel for her efforts in helping our cuddly furry friends.
