Protecting animals should be priority
When faced with the many needs that come to our attention, we often feel powerless to make a difference. Most of us want to help but see the problems of our community ‘ whether it’s in Dickson, McMinnville, or Nashville ‘ as too large and our ability to help too small.
One of the many needs that tugs at my heart and challenges my resources is animals in need of help. There are horrifying cases of animal cruelty in the news, and countless circumstances in which even animal lovers can’t always afford to spay, neuter or treat a loved pet or animal found in distress ‘ it’s simply too expensive.
Personally, I have encountered many situations where an animal could be saved by a caring hand or medical procedure. Throughout my life, I have partnered with my mother, friends, and caregivers to rescue and nurse an array of animals, from dogs, cats and birds to a newborn skunk, frogs, rabbits, and a seagull. I am grateful to have been able to help, but the needs are endless.
I have wondered how I can best make a difference when I repeatedly see so many animals in need in our community and cannot help them all.
My path crossed The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee when I wanted to start a charitable fund to address these widespread needs, and I became a part of the formation of The Animal Welfare Fund.
The Animal Welfare Fund takes the contributions of those of us who want to help and partners them with a network of amazing people all across Middle Tennessee who contribute their time, money and expertise to protect birds of all feathers, and creatures of all sizes.
From population control and animal rescue to health and welfare issues, The Animal Welfare Fund supports programs for all animals ‘ from our beloved dogs and cats to elephants and potbellied pigs. The fund supports spay and neutering programs for low-income families, wildlife habitats, a dog-training program for law enforcement, and rescue efforts.
The Community Foundation provides an opportunity for people to make a difference at whatever level they can and for whatever cause tugs at their heart. It is a place for anyone to help, whether it’s starting your own fund ‘ like I did ‘ or making a contribution to a specialized fund that’s already in place. All contributions make a difference, from $5 to $5,000.
The Community Foundation not only partners participants with a network of persons with a similar concern, but also creates a way for each and every dollar contributed to work year after year after year.
You can reach The Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee at (615) 321-4939, or visit www.cfmt.org.
Pamela Davis Needham is owner of Native Entertainment Group and an animal advocate.