I would add that most people don't even know that animal shelters and animal impounds exist in their communities, how they are funded, the conditions under which the animals live in their care, and euthanasia rates - especially in rural communities. Thanks for sharing this valuable info.
This is exactly why I don't like EA funding. I think the best use of charitable funds is almost always local. The best over site is also local. Local shelters and rescues are invariably the best places to make a difference in your community.
Thanks, Yvonne! I've seen shelters struggle all over the country due to this misconception, and the fact that the national orgs don't go out of their way to clear this up is an indictment against them, in my view...
Thank you, Heidi! This misunderstanding has kept local shelters struggling for decades. It really needs to be cleared up. I think we'd be surprised how much better animal welfare would get across the nation if we could turn the national money vacuums off...
Many, many years ago I would donate to the ASPCA only to receive calendars, stationary, greeting cards, and other trinkets. I thought to myself, where is my money going? I don’t want to fund the making of trinkets sent to caring people who donate to the ASPCA! I want to help animals!! This led me to do some research and ultimately write a strongly worded letter to the ASPCA and end my financial support to these kinds or national organizations. I now donate directly to my local shelters and reputable non profits.
I appreciate you bringing this information to the public because many have been fooled, like myself. In retrospect, all the celebrities in the ASPCA’s commercials can’t be cheap either!! To this very day I will change the channel whenever I hear the sad music begin to play.
Thank you, Andrea, for sharing your experience and perspective! It's unfortunate your previous donations to national organizations left you feeling disconnected from the cause. Your decision to research and redirect your support directly to local shelters and reputable nonprofits is commendable. Your story underscores the importance of informed giving and supporting organizations that align with your values. I'm glad our article resonated with you, and hope it inspires others to consider where their donations are truly making an impact. Your support for local shelters and rescues is invaluable in helping animals in need. Thank you for being a compassionate advocate for animals in your community!
I would add that most people don't even know that animal shelters and animal impounds exist in their communities, how they are funded, the conditions under which the animals live in their care, and euthanasia rates - especially in rural communities. Thanks for sharing this valuable info.
Very enlightening. Thank you
You're very welcome, Trevy! Thank you for taking the time to read it and share your thoughts.
This is exactly why I don't like EA funding. I think the best use of charitable funds is almost always local. The best over site is also local. Local shelters and rescues are invariably the best places to make a difference in your community.
Thank you for your feedback, Lynn! I obviously could not agree more... ;-)
Your point about how easily people are confused when donating to help animals is right on! So thanks for another important post!
Thanks, Yvonne! I've seen shelters struggle all over the country due to this misconception, and the fact that the national orgs don't go out of their way to clear this up is an indictment against them, in my view...
Agree!
Another important and educational post. Thank you, Ed. The grassroots, local approach and support is so much more effective.
Thank you, Heidi! This misunderstanding has kept local shelters struggling for decades. It really needs to be cleared up. I think we'd be surprised how much better animal welfare would get across the nation if we could turn the national money vacuums off...
Agreed. Again, profit, money money money.
Many, many years ago I would donate to the ASPCA only to receive calendars, stationary, greeting cards, and other trinkets. I thought to myself, where is my money going? I don’t want to fund the making of trinkets sent to caring people who donate to the ASPCA! I want to help animals!! This led me to do some research and ultimately write a strongly worded letter to the ASPCA and end my financial support to these kinds or national organizations. I now donate directly to my local shelters and reputable non profits.
I appreciate you bringing this information to the public because many have been fooled, like myself. In retrospect, all the celebrities in the ASPCA’s commercials can’t be cheap either!! To this very day I will change the channel whenever I hear the sad music begin to play.
Support your local shelters and rescues!
Thank you, Andrea, for sharing your experience and perspective! It's unfortunate your previous donations to national organizations left you feeling disconnected from the cause. Your decision to research and redirect your support directly to local shelters and reputable nonprofits is commendable. Your story underscores the importance of informed giving and supporting organizations that align with your values. I'm glad our article resonated with you, and hope it inspires others to consider where their donations are truly making an impact. Your support for local shelters and rescues is invaluable in helping animals in need. Thank you for being a compassionate advocate for animals in your community!
Such a powerful Stack.
My new mantra, “THINK GLOBALLY, GIVE LOCALLY”. Goes well with “Adopt, Don’t Shop.” Thank you for this. ❤️😽🐶
Judith, I think that's great! You're on to something... All you need is a tune to go with it...
🎶🎼🎵🎤🥁🎸🎺