Veterinarian and BCT volunteer launches run/walk to raise funds for pets in need
Thousands of Banfield Charitable Trust volunteers raise funds and collect pet food donations every year to help fund BCT’s programs for struggling pet owners and pets in need. In 2011, Dr. Debora Pettit, a veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital in Sacramento, led a group of volunteers to organize a 5K run/walk benefitting BCT programs. The event has spread to other communities across the country in its second year. Here, Dr. Pettit and BCT Executive Director & CEO Dianne McGill discuss the event and the many ways it helps pets in need.
How did the idea come about?
Dr. Pettit: We wanted to do a large scale BCT fund raiser that would also raise awareness for pet health. A 5K run seemed like the logical thing to do, and we decided we should include dogs in the run.
Dianne McGill: Successful fundraisers are equal parts passion for the cause and realistic goals. No matter what your fundraising idea might be, we encourage volunteers to think about events or projects that are manageable and are a good fit for your pet lover community. Dr. Pettit was successful because she had a strong vision, a good team in place to help her, and knew Sacramento pet lovers would want to help.
What would you recommend to others who might consider organizing such a large event?
Dr. Pettit: We started planning in December for May 1—we should have started a little earlier to have more time to secure sponsors. Here is a breakdown of the steps we took:
- Create a backwards timeline to stay on track
- Secure a date and location
- Recruit a committee of volunteers to help plan the event
- Get sponsors, because their logos will need to go onto your printed material
- Set up your website
- Get a printer lined up – if you can find one to donate to your cause, it will save you a lot of money
- Get a T-shirt printer lined up and find out what their lead time is to have your shirts delivered on time. Allow at least two weeks, three weeks is probably better.
- Set a date to close early registration, based on how long you need for your T-shirt order.
- Get your committees started on their tasks – it takes time to get donations.
Dianne McGill: I can attest to the hard work and dedication Dr. Pettit and her volunteers brought to organizing this event.
What was the most challenging part?
Dr. Pettit: Coordinating all the volunteers and having meetings/conference calls with everyone. With schedules, it was nearly impossible to get everyone together for calls.
What was the most fun?
Dr. Pettit: Seeing the day come together and all of the people and dogs out there having a good time.
Dianne McGill: I was inspired to see so many caring pet lovers and advocates come out to show their support for our mission. And there’s nothing like seeing people doing something good in the community with their pets at their side.
Why do you think it is important or valuable to help the Trust?
Dr. Pettit: I think all the programs that BCT supports are awesome, and very much needed in our communities. I saw the Trust and our own market pull together to help in Joplin after a tornado went through and there were many injured pets that needed assistance.
Dianne McGill: The funds raised at the Bark For Your Heart event were used to help struggling pet owners. I hope volunteers know that their efforts are literally making the difference between life and death for pets and making a huge difference in the lives of people who dearly love their furry companions.
Anything else to add?
Dr. Pettit: It is well worth the effort!
Dianne McGill: There are so many ways people can help pets in need and we welcome both large-scale and smaller fundraising projects since both can generate lots of donations. Anyone who’s interested can contact me at dianne.mcgill@banfieldcharitabletrust.org to discuss ways to get involved.
