Dakin Humane Society Exceeds Fall Matching Challenge Campaign

SPRINGFIELD — Dakin Humane Society has announced the successful conclusion of its Fall Matching Challenge Campaign, in which an anonymous donor agreed to match, dollar-for-dollar, all monetary donations up to $125,000. Thanks to contributions from more than 1,700 people, the final tally came in at more than $153,000. “We couldn’t be more pleased about this outcome,” said Dakin’s Executive Director Leslie Harris. “The initial goal was to meet a $100,000 level, which our donors did one week prior to deadline. Our amazing benefactor then added another $25,000 incentive in the remaining days, and our donors rallied to meet – and exceed – that amount as well. The dedication of our supporters is incredible, and their generosity will make a difference in the lives of countless animals.”

On Nov. 22, Dakin will welcome 16 “Dixie Dogs” from Kentucky, all rescued in conjunction with the Paris Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) of Paris, Kentucky. The intake is part of the national Subaru “Share the Love”/ASPCA Rescue Ride program that distributes grant funding to animal welfare organizations across the country to fund the safe transport of sheltered dogs from overcrowded shelters to those with space and a higher demand for adoptable animals. PAWS will be one of 19 animal welfare organizations sharing the $100,000 grant total. The program is projected to transport over 2,000 animals to locations where they will have a better chance of finding a home. Dakin’s “Dixie Dogs” program involves the transportation of dogs from overcrowded shelters in southern states (mostly Kentucky and Texas) to Dakin so they can receive a second chance at a new life here in New England. Dakin is also preparing for its annual “Black Friday” adoption event on Nov. 28 from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at its Springfield and Leverett locations. Cats five years and older will be available for a $5 adoption fee, and there will be a 50% discount on adoption fees for small animals including bunnies, doves, mice, chinchillas, hamsters, guinea pigs and rats. Dakin’s Diamonds in the Ruff Thrift Store will also offer its variety of pet and gift items at half price on that day. On Dec. 10, Dakin will participate in “Valley Gives,” a day-long online philanthropy event, hosted by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts that encourages participants to log on and contribute to their favorite charitable organizations.