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Rising to the Challenge: How C.A.R.E. Animal Shelter and a Generous Fundholder Created a Transformative Opportunity

When generosity meets determination, incredible things happen. Earlier this year, the Wilma W. Robinson Fund at Community Foundation Tampa Bay presented C.A.R.E. with an extraordinary opportunity: if the shelter could raise $250,000 on its own, they would unlock a matching gift of up to $250,000.  

C.A.R.E. got to work raising funds. Through community outreach, innovative campaigns, and the tireless efforts of staff, volunteers, and supporters, the shelter rallied enough support to reach their goal of $250,000. This achievement unlocked the matching funds, bringing them closer to their dream of building a state-of-the-art facility.

The Vision for the New Shelter

The funds raised during this campaign will go toward creating a transformative space for both animals and their adoptive families. The new facility will include:

  • Increased Capacity: With the ability to take in more animals, C.A.R.E. can provide care and shelter for more vulnerable pets in need.
  • Dedicated Isolation Areas: New spaces will allow the shelter to isolate incoming animals and provide a safe, quiet environment for mothers with puppies.
  • Private Meeting Spaces: Prospective adopters will have areas to connect with animals one-on-one and consult with the Animal Care Manager about topics like nutrition, vaccinations, and general care.
  • Supportive Environments for Pet Owners: Individuals relinquishing pets will have access to private rooms for a more compassionate experience.
  • Disaster Preparedness Features: The new shelter will include hurricane impact windows, a generator, and connection to county sewer and water, ensuring continuity of care during natural disasters.

The Ripple Effect of Generosity

The match campaign, which ran through the end of December, has already shown the incredible ripple effect that philanthropy can create. Each donation not only directly supports C.A.R.E.’s mission but also inspires others to give, knowing their contributions will be doubled. This sense of collective impact has ignited the community’s passion for animal welfare and has drawn new supporters to the cause.

“Philanthropy has the power to turn aspirations into reality. This incredible matching challenge is a perfect example of how generosity can inspire a community to come together, multiply its impact, and create lasting change,” said Denyve Boyle, Senior Vice President of Philanthropy at Community Foundation Tampa Bay.  

Provide Match Dollars to Support the Causes You Care About

Learn how you can invest your charitable dollars towards impactful giving opportunities like this by connecting with a member of our Philanthropy Team or email info@cftampabay.org.

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