ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) — Saint Francis Service Dogs has officially kicked off its second annual spring fundraiser, “Barks ‘n Rec,” which encourages people to get active for a good cause.
From Monday, April 18 through Sunday, April 24, organizers say you can participate in your favorite activities with your pets by your side — and raise money and awareness for a worthy cause — through Barks ‘n Rec.
Cabell Youell, executive director of Saint Francis Service Dogs, and service dog Brutus joined WFXR News’ Evan Johnson on “WFXR News at Noon” to share more details about Barks ‘n Rec.
All proceeds from the event will help the organization raise, train, and place service dogs with individuals with physical and developmental disabilities throughout the Commonwealth and surrounding areas.
As of this writing, Saint Francis Service Dogs is already 97% of the way toward its goal of raising $60,000 for 2022 through this event.
If you want to participate in Barks ‘n Rec, follow this link and pledge to do any activity you like during the week, whether that’s kayaking, cartwheeling, swimming, juggling, reading, etc.
According to the nonprofit, the $25 registration fee not only earns you a fun-filled week, but also an event t-shirt and the chance to win one of the special event prizes.
You will also have the option to create an individual fundraising page to share your activity and participation, as well as receive support from your friends and family.
By sharing your involvement through social media with #barksnrec2022 and seeking help from your community, individual participants can increase their impact and support Saint Francis’ critical mission.
“Last year, nearly 500 people across 27 states participated in our first ever Barks ‘n Rec fundraiser,” the nonprofit said in a statement on Feb. 9. “We are hoping this year will be even bigger and better with more people doing their own thing to benefit Saint Francis Service Dogs. We exceeded our goal last year and we know with your help, we can do the same this year!”
