Millions of unwanted dogs, cats, farm animals, birds, and reptiles find themselves in shelters across the country.
Animal shelters exist in almost every municipality across the United States. Some are state funded while others operate through donations only. The sole function of these organizations is to house unwanted and neglected animals, provide them comfort and medical care and try to find suitable homes for them. Regardless of how animal shelters receive the bulk of their funding, most are woefully underfunded and conduct events in an attempt to raise additional money. This money is used to expand and improve shelter facilities to be able to provide as many services as possible to as many animals as possible.
Benefit Events
Some animal shelters work out agreements with local vendors and, in conjunction with that vendor, promote an event in which a certain percentage of proceeds are donated to the shelter. These events can include photo shoots and festival-like meals where the sponsor caters the event. The vendor can charge a cover to get into the event or only charge for services rendered.
Adopt-a-Thon
Adopt-a-thons are another common avenue for fundraising and animal placement. Adoptable animals are showcased for the public with shelter staff on hand to assist with adoptions. Oftentimes, vendors partner with the shelters to offer discounted services and make donations to the shelter.
Weekend Events
Some cities host weekend long events such as obedience trials and social events aimed at helping shelters raise money. All or a percentage of the proceeds benefit the animal shelter. These events are usually very popular with the local pet owning population and are well attended. There are usually a bevy of activities from obedience and agility trials to photo shoots, food vendors and pet supply vendors.
Open House
Open houses are almost always successful when it comes to adopting pets as well as raising money. Advertise with local veterinarians and pet supply establishments to get the word out as well as taking out ads in local papers.
Golf Outings
Golf outings are popular. Encourage a local golf course to host an event for the locals and pledge a percentage of the proceeds to the shelter. Weekend golf outings are especially successful when coupled with sponsorships from local vendors who are willing to donate door prizes that can be raffled off, generating additional funds for the shelter.
Pet Shows
Animal shows that showcase the local residential pet population as well as allowing adoptable animals to be showcased are also a big hit. This kind of event brings awareness to the shelter's needs and gets the community involved.
Tags: percentage proceeds, with local, animal shelters, animals showcased, Events Some, local vendors, photo shoots