The Ontario SPCA Leeds & Grenville is challenging the community to get active for a virtual fundraising campaign.
The animal centre is kicking off its Sweat for Pets fundraiser, inspiring residents to set their own personal fitness goals, while raising funds for supporting vulnerable animals.
Manager Marianne Carlyle says no matter how you decide to participate, it will have a big impact on animals in the shelter.
“Gardening every day, walking in the neighborhood, other unique challenges you can create,” Carlyle said. “We want you to be out and active and getting pledges to help support our animals.”
The five-week challenge kicks off Tuesday, and residents are encouraged to choose a fitness challenge that suits their abilities.
Carlyle says by participating in Sweat for Pets, you’re not only doing something good for yourself, but you’re also raising critical funds to help animals get a second chance.
“We just had four dogs come into our care up from North Carolina,” Carlyle said. “Those dogs are getting a second chance. They’re here, and they’re going to be available for adoption very shortly.”
Carlyle, who cycled hundreds of kilometres for last year’s event, says she’ll be doing the same again this year.
She will be cycling 150 kilometers starting Thursday, and riding 50 kilometres every five hours, starting and finishing at the Leeds & Grenville Animal Centre.
Last year, the campaign raised almost $5,000.
Carlyle says they’ll be looking to eclipse that mark this year.
“We’re gunning for about $6,000,” Carlyle said. “It’s also a shorter campaign, so we have a really concerted effort for events happening. You’ll see lots of shares online from our Animal Centre, and what we’re doing here.”
For those wishing to cheer Carlyle on, she will be departing from the animal centre at 7 a.m., noon and 5 p.m.
To register for the challenge, head here.