She was always an animal lover with a soft spot for homeless pets. But, for Terri Panszi, it was a visit to the city animal shelter in Muncie, Indiana, that changed everything. Touched by the huddled masses of cats and dogs in need of human companions, she became a dedicated advocate for animal adoption—taking home a number of pets herself, while connecting others with forever homes through friends and family.
And from Panszi’s passion for helping these unwanted animals grew a promise that would last a lifetime: a vow to love and assist community animals through her own no-kill shelter—the Animal Rescue Fund, founded in 1998.
Now the ARF continues to make a difference in the lives of countless animals in the Muncie area. Throughout years of tireless work, Panszi has collected a number of stories to tell—some hilarious, some heartbreaking, and many filled with inspiration and joy.
A Promise of Love is a collection of short tales from this local icon’s life and work, penned by newspaper writer John W. Carlson, and featuring the many people and animals that have made an impact on Panszi’s journey along the way.