BY ABBEY CRANK
FOR THE OBSERVER
LEE COUNTY — CARE Humane Society marked a significant milestone on Sunday, Oct. 20, celebrating its 50th anniversary.
The community event raised more than $20,000 in donations. Currently, the total number of contributions is $27,000, putting the organization more than halfway toward its $50,000 fundraising goal.
The event drew a large crowd of local supporters, volunteers and animal lovers, all united in their commitment to the shelter’s mission. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities, with many expressing their gratitude for the shelter’s long-standing service to the community.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for everyone who came out to support us,” CARE Development Director Jenny Warren said. “Thanks to your generosity, we raised over $20,000 today. Your support helps ensure we can continue providing care for the animals who need us.”
In addition to the fundraising success, the event featured a special dedication ceremony honoring two key donors, Ginger and Walt Woltosz, for their enduring commitment to CARE. The couple was recognized with a commemorative bench placed in front of the shelter to symbolize their years of support.
The shelter also welcomed a surge of volunteer engagement, with 42 new volunteers signing up to lend their time to the organization.
The funds raised will help the organization continue its mission, providing food, medical care and shelter to animals until they can be placed in their forever homes.
With $23,000 left to reach their goal, CARE remains hopeful that the community will continue to rally behind them. The shelter expressed optimism that, with ongoing donations and volunteer support, it will soon reach the $50,000 target.
To help CARE reach its goal, limited-edition $15 T-shirts and $6 bandanas will be available at the shelter for purchase.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of this milestone celebration,” Warren added. “We couldn’t do this without you.”
