The recent devastating rush of hurricane Harvey and Irma has left both victims and bystanders desperately seeking help and opportunities to help others. Among the most helpless? Animals, a cause that’s close to my heart. Many owners, for one reason or another, felt they were unable to take their beloved pets along with them to safety, displacing thousands of vulnerable animals.
Animal advocates and organizations everywhere immediately mobilized and donated to come to whatever rescue they could. In Houston, local and nearby places cleared shelters. Nationally, organizations like the Humane Society, Wings of Rescue, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, GreaterGood.org, the Best Friends Animal Society and more all organized to fly homeless dogs and cats already in shelters before the hurricane to facilities in other parts of the country.
The rush of donations surely made an impact, but there’s still work to do now that the storm has passed. While the following examples discuss animal advocacy specifically, the same ideas apply no matter what matters most to you.
Donate Money Consistently
For better or worse, people always come together in the hardest of times. But to make a more sustainable, long-term impact, consider donating to your most trusted organization or shelter on a regular basis, and set it up like any other monthly bill. Check out this list from Villanova and this article by We Are Pet Nation for comprehensive information on the most trustworthy organizations.
Organize a Local Fundraising Event
Sharing the fact that you donated on Facebook is no small move and really can make a difference. But if you’re able, look into organizing a much larger awareness play by hosting a local fundraising event. Some quick tips to keep in mind:
- Set a goal that’s measureable and specific, and stick to whatever budget you set.
- Choose the right type of event that reflects your mission, audience, and your goal. The options are truly endless, so check out this list of fundraising ideas from Eventbrite to help get the wheels turning for all different kinds and categories of events. I love idea #9, which talks about setting up a singles charity night with an activity like making dog toys for your local shelter, or #44’s “buddy run.” You could also go a little bigger and help set up a canine carnival with your local shelter, where people can come and play with pets and either adopt or donate.
- If you’re putting together a larger event, round up local sponsors!
- Promote it! Make a Facebook event, make flyers. Go crazy and have fun.
Give More Than Money
Besides donating money, the other most valuable thing you can offer is your time. Consider opening up your home and becoming a foster if your circumstances and finances allow it. This is, of course, a significant and life-changing commitment. If it’s not in the cards for you, simply volunteer at your local shelter or rescue. They’re always always always in need of help, from everything to dog walking, spending quality time with the animals, wrangling up and organizing supplies, or even helping them promote on social.
This is just the tip of the advocacy iceberg! What organizations and causes are close to your heart? Let me know in the comments!
This is great information! thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteThis all makes me so sad. I would love to help out in any way that I can! https://mylogicalliving.com/2017/09/27/shop-our-fall-favorites/
ReplyDeleteBreaks my heart! We volunteer at our local animal shelter.
ReplyDeleteThese are some fantastic way to advocate for animals! <3
ReplyDeleteThese are some great tips! It broke my heart to see so many animals left to fend for themselves. When we all come together for one common goal, we can make amazing things happen!
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