FENNVILLE — A local animal rescue that reached out to the West Michigan community for financial support has reached and exceeded its goal.
For The Sake of Being Humane, which helps dogs others might turn away, was left scrambling in early March when its landlord decided to sell the property the organization called home. In a social media post, the nonprofit said its goal was to raise $17,500 to use as a downpayment to purchase the facility themselves.
More: Local animal rescue needs money for permanent home or risks closure
They were given two weeks to raise the funds. Saying they met their goal would be an understatement.
“We met our goal after just two weeks, and exceeded it just as quickly,” said director Ashlynn Cluchey. “We officially raised $34,500 and have had numerous adoptions thanks to the publicity from the media bringing awareness to our rescue and situation.”
Cluchey said For The Sake of Being Humane received donations of all sizes, from citizens and businesses —including a $5,000 donation from Gun Lake Casino. She said there are still a few steps to take before making the official purchase, but organizers are breathing easy.
“Extra funds will be used to pay off our vet bill balance at our vet clinic, to cover a few major facility repairs before an appraisal, and the rest will be used to pay the bills going forward to give us a good head start,” Cluchey said.
Subscribe: Get all your breaking news and unlimited access to our local coverage
The organization launched in 2017, moving to its current facility at 2525 68th St. in Fennville in 2019. The nonprofit aims to find dogs loving homes that meet their needs. Today, they house 46 dogs.
Cluchey said receiving the funds was an incredible blessing — but for her, knowing the community supports the organization’s mission was just as touching.
“We are so grateful to have the support that we do,” Cluchey said. “We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without everyone who has donated and been there for us through this hurdle and over the years. Thank you all.”
— Contact freelancer Austin Metz at ametz@gannett.com.