As you may know, Fur Kids Foundation exists to help financially strapped pet owners in Campbell County, Wyoming afford medical treatments for their pets. While we aren't the only organization in the nation that provides assistance for veterinary care, we are the only organization in Northeastern Wyoming that does (as of April 2014).
As of May 13, 2014, the Foundation has helped more than 50 families and granted more $10,000 in aid since we helped our first case in September 2012. (PSST: Check out our Success Stories page to read about the pets we've helped!) The average cost of the cases Fur Kids Foundation has helped is roughly $190, but we have given as much as $665. There are times when the Foundation receives six requests for assistance a month, and times when the Foundation receives four requests for assistance a day. And, we are also very fortunate to work with all of the veterinarians in Gillette who often deeply discount their services to clients who reach out to the Foundation for help, allowing us to help more families in need. However, you may not know how we do what we do. Typically, the Foundation raises funds by soliciting donations from businesses and individuals as well as hosting fundraising events. Many of you have likely participated in one of our events such as Pet-A-Palooza, Holiday Portraits with the Grinch, and many more. We also apply for numerous grants, as well as list ourselves with other businesses that donate a portion of their proceeds to nonprofits such as AmazonSmile or BISSELL Partner for Pets. And, when we're really lucky, businesses host fundraising events on our behalf like what Annabelle's Cookies, Hands on Pottery, Petco Gillette and Photo Imaging Center Gillette have done for us in the past year. The most money the Foundation has ever amassed at any one time is $4,000, which was raised at the 2013 Pet-A-Palooza. So, who are the people who run this organization and put these fundraisers together? A volunteer force of animal lovers with full-time jobs of their own. And, may I also point out, generous hearts. The Fur Kids Foundation board members and volunteers all contribute their time, talents and money to the Foundation every year. Countless hours are put in each month by board members and volunteers to process applications for assistance, hang posters for fundraisers, plan other fundraising events, write thank you letters to donors and volunteers, reach out to businesses for donations, write blogs and update the website and social media pages (Facebook and Twitter), among other duties. We also work very hard to make sure that the majority of our money goes to helping families. However, there are costs that we do have to raise additional money to pay for such as insurance for the board of directors and events, marketing, and booths at events where we can get information out about our organization. The majority of our marketing is done online and via word of mouth, and so far that has been working well for us. We can safely say that less than 20 percent of the money raised goes to cover administrative costs. The only reason the Foundation has the money to help pet owners is because of the very generous donations by businesses and individuals, as well as the dedication our board members and volunteers have to helping families keep their pets healthy. Fur Kids Foundation has made a big impact on the community and has helped many families. Our board members and volunteers are very proud of this impact, and we look forward to doing much more in this community and region for many years to come. However, the only way we can survive is if you want us to. Help us continue to help families in Campbell County, Wyoming afford pet care. Donate today.
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Welcome to the Fur Kids Foundation blog archive that features inspiring stories of pets and people! Get inspired by these amazing furry tales of recovery and hope! All because someone like YOU cared.
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