By Sharon Boyles
Pets In Need of Greater Cincinnati is proud to recognize a transformational gift from Don Klekamp, whose lifelong legacy of service, compassion, and generosity continues to uplift and inspire our community. In loving memory of his late wife, Marianne, and their cherished Westie, Lily,
Don has made a remarkable $100,000 contribution to help families facing financial hardship access critical, and often lifesaving, veterinary care. A lifelong Cincinnatian and recipient of the Great Living Cincinnatian Award, Don Klekamp has made a lasting impact on the city he calls home. He was an original shareholder and longtime director at Cintas Corporation for most of his career and is a founding partner at Keating Muething & Klekamp PLL, where he remains active today. Among many honors throughout his distinguished legal and civic career, he was most recently awarded the St. Francis Xavier Medal by Xavier University, a distinction that is given to few and speaks volumes about his character, contributions, and commitment to service.
Despite his many achievements, Don is quick to credit those around him. In every conversation, he brings it back to family – his devoted parents and siblings, his beloved late wife, Marianne, and their five children. “I was raised in a home filled with faith, family values, a strong work ethic, and a moral compass,” he shared. “My late wife was my foundation, my rock. Together we raised a wonderful family, built meaningful personal and professional relationships, and created a life rooted in gratitude and generosity.” Don’s giving is as thoughtful as it is generous. “It brings me great joy to give back,” he says, “whether in support of law, causes that reflect my passions, or most recently, in honor of Marianne’s passions.” That includes supporting her college sorority, programs that provide the arts for youth, and now, a cause dear to both their hearts: pets.
“Don’s gift to Pets In Need will not only support families in crisis, those facing poverty, housing instability, or other challenges that put veterinary care out of reach, but will also help invest in the veterinary professionals who make our mission possible,” said Pam McKie, Executive Director of Pets In Need. “This extraordinary generosity helps keep pets healthy and in the homes of the families who love them. It truly keeps pets and people together.” Through his thoughtful philanthropy, Don Klekamp honors the people and values that shaped his life while creating a legacy of care, compassion, and community impact that will be felt for years to come.
Pets In Need of Greater Cincinnati Pets In Need is committed to helping pets stay healthy and together with the people who love them. Its clinic in Lockland provides comprehensive, low-cost veterinary services for pets from homes in which income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. The clinic is the only resource of its kind in Greater Cincinnati, serving over 3,000 pets each year. Our compassionate team is committed to supporting both our clients and their pets with kindness and care. To learn more about Pets In Need and the services it provides, please visit www.PINCincinnati.org.