Tweet of the Week Donation (from 2/25)

I grew up in an animal-lover household and always had a quiet appreciation for the affection and loyalty that animals express.  I remember making paper bookmarks with a friend and running from house to house to sell them and raise money for the local Save-A-Pet shelter.   Time has not dampened my spirit to help animals and, now more than ever, I want to find a way to make it an integral part of my life.  So, I’m grateful for this opportunity!

On that note, I chose to donate my $120 to the ASPCA, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.  This was the first humane organization established in the Americas and has grown to include more than one million supporters.  97.2% of their funds come from contributions and gifts so it is up to people to help them accomplish their mission.

Their organization follows a multi-faceted approach which includes leadership in “animal-assisted therapy, animals behavior, animal poison control, anti-cruelty, humane education, legislative services and shelter outreach.”  I believe that by effectively combating many aspects of the problem at once, they are able to make real progress.

Due to their transparency, we can see that they are very thorough in their work.  For example, they have a forensics team to help analyze evidence to win cruelty convictions.  They are also the nation’s second largest animal welfare grant giver.  By providing grants to shelters around the country that support their goals, they are able to build a network and respond quickly to emergencies.  In addition, they provide spay and neuter services to over 120 communities to help with animal overpopulation.

One of my favorite parts of what they do is their work with legislators to pass legislation and establish public policy to fight animal cruelty.  They are working to ensure that appropriate measures are being explored and adopted at all levels of government.  This, as well as many of the things I mentioned above, coincides greatly with my value of being proactive.  This organization is not just halting cruelty in the now but is looking to address these issues for the future.

I believe their mission is important because it’s about making the world better.  Humans make up a significant part of the planet, but where would we be today without animals?  I personally look forward to seeing my rescued dog this weekend because she brings me overwhelming amounts of happiness.