Sun Sentinel Palm Beach Edition
Get out and Walk for the Animals
For the first time since the VCA Walk for the Animals benefiting the Humane Society of Broward County began 30 years ago, a national celebrity will be at this year’s event on March 7 at Huizenga Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale.
Former “What Not to Wear” co-host Clinton Kelly, who will be the event’s honorary chairman, adopted his rescue dog Mary 11 years ago and was “delighted to help in any way” he could after the Humane Society of Broward County reached out to him.
“When I toured their facility in Fort Lauderdale, I was blown away by their dedication to uniting homeless animals and helpful humans. It’s a lot of work to care for these sweet little critters, and the staff and volunteers do it with grace and a smile,” said Kelly, who won an Emmy during seven seasons as co-host of the former daytime television show “The Chew” on ABC. He currently hosts HGTV’s new series “Self Made Mansions.”
Proceeds from the 30th annual VCA Walk for the Animals will go toward the Humane Society of Broward County’s overall shelter operations, said Cherie Wachter, HSBC’s vice president of marketing.
With an operating budget of more than $7 million, the funds raised will be used for the educational programs the facility provides to the community; presentations to schools in Broward County; low-cost vaccinations for pets who have homes; and low-cost spaying and neutering for pets adopted from the shelter or freeroaming and feral pets, she said.
“The Humane Society is a nonprofit and we’re not affiliated with any national or local organization with a similar name. Each Humane Society is independent and has to raise their own funds to operate,” Wachter said. “People think if they donate to the one in Washington, D.C. the money trickles down to Broward, and it doesn’t.”
Wachter said she hopes the walk this year, which is the Humane Society of Broward County’s largest fundraiser, raises $660,000, and she encourages the community to attend, she said.
Kelly also encourages people to participate in the walk.
“Just come on out. What’s better than spending a day outside with animals and people who love animals? I plan on scratching at least 100 furry heads that day — and maybe even some dogs. Seriously though, get your butt outside and take a walk for a great cause. It’s a winwin situation if I’ve ever heard of one,” he said.
Jacey Birch, of WPLG-Ch. 10, and Letty B of iHeart radio station MIA-93.9 FM, are the event’s chairwomen. The walk will also feature a bounce house and face painting, doggie pools, free IHOP pancakes and entertainment. The Purina Incredible Dog Team will also be performing.
“It’s an amazing day where thousands of animal lovers come out and show support for the shelter, our programs and services we offer. I’ve been here 24 years and it’s amazing to see how much the event has grown and the people who have come back year after year,” Wachter said.
Carey Morgan, one of the event cochairpersons, has been involved for 11 years through volunteering and raising funds.
“I have a passion for animals, and I’ve met a lot of people who have the same passion. We’re doing something good for the community as well as for the animals,” Morgan said. “We hope we see everyone at the walk and every and all donations are welcome.”
People are encouraged to register ahead of time and to raise money, but they can also register and make donations on the spot, Wachter said.
“It truly is an amazing event. To see the love that people have for their pets and for the Humane Society for this incredible event, and it’s because of the people and businesses in the community that allows us to be successful,” she said.
Registration opens at 8 a.m. and the walk starts at 10 a.m. at Huizenga Park, 32 E. Las Olas Blvd. Register at Walk4theAnimals.com. For information about the Humane Society of Broward County, visit humanebroward.com.