A guest post by Elena Stewart, life coach
If you love animals, the thought of your four-legged friends being abandoned or neglected can be outright heart-breaking. However, you don’t have to sit back and let these things just happen. You can make a difference. This resource guide provides actionable tips for people who want to help pets in need.
Determine How You’re Going to Help Pets
Come up with a concrete plan to inform a clear path of action.
- Research animal charities and the work they do to get ideas for how you can help.
- You might also conduct a community needs assessment to see what your local area needs in terms of animal care.
- Once you have an idea, sketch out a business plan detailing things like your mission statement, required resources, and overhead costs.
- Consider setting up a formal nonprofit entity to structure your support efforts.
Invest in the Resources You Need to Make a Change
You’ll likely need some supplies, which you can fund yourself or with the help of donations.
- Make a list of all the possible startup and overhead expenses you can think of.
- If you don’t have the money yourself, look to external sources to fund your startup.
- Start by securing the basic facilities and equipment. For example, if you start an animal rescue, you’ll need accommodation.
- You’ll also need manpower to run your nonprofit. Find like-minded volunteers who care as much about animals as you do.
Gather Support by Spreading the Word About Your Efforts
By getting more people to support your cause, you can help more animals in need.
- Create a website with information about what you do and how they can help.
- Make business cards, pamphlets, flyers, and other printed materials to share with your community. There are free online tools that you can use for professional business card design and more.
- Connect with other nonprofits in your area that serve animals, such as veterinarians or your local humane society, or ASPCA.
- Work with communications professionals who specifically serve nonprofits to further raise awareness.
If you see animals in your community that could use a helping hand, don’t despair. You have the power to make a change. Trust the tips above to guide you as you figure out how to best help pets in need in your area.
Elena Stewart made the jump from a corporate job she wasn’t entirely happy with, to running her own business that gives her the financial freedom and flexible lifestyle she’s always wanted. As a life coach, she now gets the happiness of helping others get to the places that might seem out of reach.
Leave a Reply