Jackson Free Press

Mississippi Animal Rescue League Graphic Designer and Marketer Steve Godbold is passionate about helping abandoned animals find a good home.

"Part of the MARL philosophy is to provide a voice to those who can't speak for themselves," he says. "There are a lot of issues that we face to help animals and to provide a better environment for them. I think I'm that voice to make life better for animals."

During the second annual Mississippi Week for the Animals, Nov. 6 through Nov. 14, Godbold hopes that the public will learn more about pet adoption and the importance of spaying and neutering pets. Through Sunday, shelters, rescue groups and humane organizations throughout the state are hosting special events and adoption fairs. MARL is hosting a low-cost spay and neuter program for pets, and the "Hot Diggity Dog Walkathon" on Saturday, Nov. 13, at LeFleur's Bluff State Par to benefit the Gallant Hearts Guide Dog Center.

"It's an opportunity to highlight all the shelters and organizations that work with animals and highlight the importance of animals to the public," Godbold says about the week. "We have so many issues such as overpopulation. Shelters provide a place to help give animals a home and help give them care."

The Jackson native has worked with MARL since 2006. Each week, he hosts FOX 40's "Pet of the Week" segment in which he showcases animals to help them find homes.

Godbold earned his bachelor's degree in psychology from Ole Miss in 1972 and his master's degree in International Relations from Troy University in 1986. He previously served in the U.S. Air Force as a logistics officer.

The "Hot Diggity Dog Walkathon" is Saturday, Nov. 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at LeFleur Bluff State Park. Registration is $20. For more information visit http://www.gallanthearts.org. For information about Mississippi Week for the Animals and to see a list of all state-wide events, including MARL's spay and neuter program, visit the event's website.