Wildlife care center's founders chosen for Volunteers of the Year

El Dorado County Supervisor Dave Solaro presented the annual Volunteer of the Year award to Tom and Cheryl Millham of Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care during a recent Board of Supervisors' meeting in Placerville. The Millhams braved snowy conditions, chain controls and a crowded board room to happily accept their award.

"There was no question in my mind who should receive this year's award," said Supervisor Solaro, "Tom and Cheryl have worked tirelessly for 27 years to rescue, rehabilitate and release literally thousands of wild animals back into their natural environment. They are nationally recognized as an innovative care facility and the only ones in the state licensed to rehabilitate bear cubs."

Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care began in 1978 when Tom and Cheryl Millham literally opened the doors to their home on Cherry Hills Circle to take in sick, injured, orphaned and displaced small wild animals. Beginning with birds and squirrels, it wasn't long before all helpless and vulnerable small wildlife found their way to the Millhams through an ever-expanding network of volunteers and a very caring community.

Now, after 27 years at the same location, a greater dream is emerging. With the help of El Dorado County, the city of South Lake Tahoe, hundreds of volunteers and the citizens of the Lake Tahoe Basin, a state-of-the art facility can be realized. The search for a new location is now underway and grant funds are being pursued. It is the Millham's hope that a new facility can be built within five years.

Other District V Volunteers of the Year have been David Kelly, Billie Bridges, and Christmas Cheer.

The Volunteer of the Year award was created by Supervisor Carl Borelli more than four years ago and has become a prestigious tradition in his honor. Supervisor Borelli passed away two years ago April 6.