In 1963, a group of concerned citizens formed the North Coast Animal Haven Association. In 1965, the original thrift shop was started in a shed. By 1973, the association was registered as a nonprofit organization. The goal was to build an animal haven. During this time the thrift shop raised funds to help spay and neuter pets, trying to lessen the huge numbers of unwanted pets who are euthanized.

In 1986, the name was changed to Tri-City Spay and Neuter Association and moved into a single room shop in the Gilbert Block in Seaside. Cheryle Barker joined as a volunteer in 1997.

In the following years, as secretary, Barker created flyers, wrote letters to the editor, represented the shop at the service club council and started making signs. In 2005, she was named president, and from that time, the shop has grown immensely in its scope of what it does for animals and the people of our community. Cheryle has been a constant, motivating force in our growth.

In 2019 alone, the shop paid $50,590 to local veterinarians to help people afford spaying and neutering their pets. Torn or stained blankets and towels for the shelter and sheets for the bird sanctuary.

The thrift shop provides a clean, affordable place for people to shop and socialize. The shop partners with Helping Hands to provide clothing for those in need, and often gives out clothing to those who come in needing it.

Her friends and colleagues salute her accomplishments.

Patti Rouse

Cheryle has taken on so many roles for the store; ambassador, shopper, organizer of communications and schedules, no one can do the job as well as she does. I learned so much from observing Cheryle: How to encourage volunteers to take on roles that fit their strengths and provide a positive place for them to be; not being afraid to try new things and make changes as needed; how to use diplomacy with landlords, neighboring businesses, the Seaside Chamber of Commerce and everyone else involved with our store.

I learned that the role of president was one of service, commitment and action. The store has only grown and improved during the years of her presidency. She is a tough act to follow. As vice president, we are so glad Cheryle will continue to use her talents to benefit our store.

Bev Renne

The four years that I volunteered there were so wonderful. Cheryle was always willing to help out anywhere needed, fill in when someone was not able to come to the store; shop for our many necessities (like chocolate).

She was a wonderful spokesperson for the store and for our mission … not only in our own community, but the entire county as well.

She was a wonderful teacher of new volunteers as well and helped them to understand the importance of our mission.

While I know she says that she is stepping down she will continue to do just the wonderful things she has done for over 25 years.

Marilyn Dito

It’s quite obvious how this little shop with a big cause has been in business more than 40 years. Twenty-eight years ago the newest and youngest volunteer came with staying power. Loaded with basic common sense, honest business practices, kindness beyond measure and a natural friendliness to include everyone who walked in the door, Cheryle guided our store right into the 21st century. The roster of volunteers ebbed and flowed and we always had who we needed, when we needed them.

Richard Larson

Cheryle has been the heart of the store. It was nearly eight years ago when I came in and asked if I could volunteer and Cheryle said yes. I worked on Saturdays and it was really neat the way the four managers took turns working, so I got to know each of them.

I have a special place in my heart for Cheryle, not only because we were both teachers, but also because of who she and Doug are. They have given so, so much to the community. The way Cheryle looked after her mother was much like she has looked after the store. When she wasn’t scheduled to work, she often came by to see how things were going and she has always taken things to Goodwill.

I regard Cheryle as one of the jewels in my life. She has courage and faces life head on. Cheryle and Doug are in my prayers each day. They deserve the best because they are the best.

Alice Lane

I have enjoyed working with you and your wonderful sense of humor. Your dedication is an inspiration to us all! Thank you.