Supporters pounded the pavement to support animals.
At the beginning of March, World Animal Protection launched our very first virtual race, the 2017 Run for the Bears.
Participants from around the U.S. – and even as far away as Australia – joined the event to get active and raise funds in support of our work.
Our wonderful team members ran a 5K, a 10K or a half-marathon on their chosen day – and together they raised nearly $3,000 for suffering animals around the world.
Kate Russo, who completed a 5K with her excited German Shepherd Luca, said, “I was inspired to keep running by the thought of raising awareness and being a voice for the voiceless.”
And, she added, “I was also inspired by my dog who didn’t want to stop!”
Michael
Michael Bowen ran a half marathon in the height of the Australian summer.
He said, “To be honest at times I had some pain due to a previous injury and running in the hot sun made it quite challenging. I pushed through thinking of the pain and suffering that bears endure and the horrific way they have to live their lives for human entertainment. It saddens me to think but also gave me strength to know in some way I was helping them toward freedom and happiness.”
Kate found the virtual race to be fun and easy, and said, “It especially helps when you find a cause you are passionate about.”
Michael agreed. “I have always wanted to participate in a fundraiser and this was the perfect one, as I have had interest in and have supported the bears and their progress for a few years now. World Animal Protection is an organization who I trust is working very hard in fighting for animals’ rights, which drove me to become involved.”
Sarah
Congratulations to Kate, Michael, and all our virtual team members for completing their race and for making a difference for animals!
To join Team World Animal Protection in an upcoming racing event, please visit: worldanimalprotection.us.org/runwithus
“I was inspired to keep running by the thought of raising awareness and being a voice for the voiceless.