Fundraiser for On the Fifth Day

After spending 20 years rescuing animals on her own, Jen Hilsher (on the right, with some of her family) decided to open her own sanctuary. She spent 3 years researching and reading about how to do it, then decided she still had too many questions so she attended a How to Start an Animal Sanctuary workshop here at Best Friends.

The workshop was such a success for Jen that she went home to Tennessee and immediately started planning fundraisers. She's having so much fun and people are being so receptive that her sanctuary, "On the Fifth Day", should be up and running in no time. Here's her report on her first fundraiser.

"What a delight it was. On August 25, 2006, OTFD animal sanctuary held its first fundraiser which was received well and taught the founder things she never even thought of. The community was like an old friend when asked to donate something. Answers like, "Sure, what else do you need?" and "How do I get invited?" made first-time nerves settle. Although the actual attendance was lower than expected -- around 20 -- the proceeds started at over 600 dollars and by the time people sent in money who couldn't attend, over 900 dollars was made for the sanctuary. Now that my toe is wet and I'm no worse for the wear, I can't wait for the Sophomore event next year.

"The second fundraiser -- Shed For The Animals -- will take place this Sunday, October 1, to celebrate the 2nd Annual Tennessee Week For The Animals. The community has been invited to come with clean follicles and receive haircuts at an outdoor location for a suggested donation to help break ground for On The Fifth Day in the year 2007. It's a long shot but I like those better than layups. We hope to have several animals there for adoptions as well. No matter what, fun will be had. "

Way to go, Jen! Keep us posted!