Dedicated, compassionate and influential. Those are the words that come to mind when I think of this group of women. Linda Crockett, Barb Mercer, Joanne Pyke, Bev Kennedy and Laura Syms have quickly turned into a fundraising powerhouse for Cape Breton’s hurt and homeless pets.
Laura, inspired by the companionship her own furry friends have provided her throughout her life sought to inspire others. She rallied her golf buddies together with the idea of creating a life-saving tournament to support the local shelter. Through Laura’s inspiration, a committee of animal welfare advocates emerged! The dream team quickly came together and began sharing their mutual passion for pets in need.
“I’ve been fortunate to have always shared my life with a cat or dog. Sometimes both! They’ve been great companions, loved me unconditionally, and “got me.” I support the SPCA for it gives animals shelter and care while they wait to share their lives.” – Laura
“Several years ago the SPCA helped out in a rescue of a large group of Corgis from a horrible puppy mill breeder and because of that I was so grateful and fortunate to have been able to adopt one of these older dogs who we got to love and give a good life to for 6 years. That’s where it all began for me!” – Barb
“Cleo was adopted into our family from the SPCA, Sydney. She repaid us back with so much love. Our smiles show how much we enjoyed each other’s company” – Joanne
“Roxy is the reason I volunteer; she has brought such joy into our lives. Her adoption thru the Cape Breton SPCA was easy… They’re the best!” – Linda
They’ve become a true testament to the physical and emotional benefits companion animals provide to their families and decided to give back in a big way. They organized the first-ever Putt Fore Pets Golf Tournament which raised over $23,000 for Cape Breton’s shelter pets!
It wasn’t quite as simple as it sounds though. Throughout 2021, the volunteer committee was on the ground meeting with dozens of local businesses to ask them to show their support in hopes they could turn Putt Fore Pets into an annual fundraiser that will support the local shelter for years to come. They secured a presenting sponsorship from Coldwell Banker Boardwalk Realty, 18-hole sponsors, and over 100 players. On September 24th, 2021, their hard work paid off. People came from across the CBRM came in droves to show their support. Players described the event as “a day to remember” and we can’t help but agree.
The committee has no plans to slow down. Planning for the 2022 Putt Fore Pets Tournament is well underway, and volunteers have committed to making an even bigger impact. Registrations are open now. Click here.
Linda, Barb, Joanne and Laura all have one thing in common; a love of pets and the companionship they provide to their owners. Because SPCA shelters do not receive any government funding, fundraisers like this allow the SPCA to continue to be there for pets and families in need.
Please join me in giving a big round of o-paws for these fabulous volunteers who are saving lives! And don’t forget to check out their 2022 plans right here.
