This past Sunday I was invited to a fundraising event for Kane’s Krusade. The spokesdogs (or, as they are called, ambassa-bulls) for the organization, Kane and Tess were two of the hero pit bulls included in my book so, of course I could not wait to meet them. Kane’s Cookout is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year. It was a great day to get out and support Kane’s Krusade and, as an added bonus meet celebrity dog guests such as Juno of Juno’s Place, Burt and friends of Burt’s Brigade, Cherry Garcia, a dog formerly owned by Michael Vick and now owned by a wonderful family with young children and Lilly the Hero Pit Bull who risked her own life and lost a limb to save the life of her owner. Lilly is also featured in my book so, as you may well imagine, I was thrilled when I heard she would be in attendance.
| As extraordinary as the day was, I would really like to take this opportunity to comment about Kane’s Krusade and the tremendous and inspiring work this organization does to keep families together. Kane’s Krusade is an all-volunteer, non-profit agency based out of Springfield, Massachusetts. The organization provides C.A.R.E (Canine Assistance, Resources and Empowerment) Kits of food and supplies to individuals and families who have fallen on hard times. Although it is preferred that pets be kept inside, Kane’s Krusade treats its pet owners in a non-judgmental way. Volunteers build insulated dog houses and kennels for outdoor pets so they will be allowed the freedom to move about unrestricted. The group also runs campaigns to raise awareness and educate the community about pit bull breeds. The ultimate goal is to keep beloved pets in their homes, off the streets and out of shelters. |   |
At the time founder Kim George submitted her story for my book, Kane’s Krusade was assisting twenty-three families and forty-seven dogs. As of this writing, the numbers have grown to over fifty families and eighty-three dogs. These are dogs and owners who are falling through the cracks. Kane’s volunteers go right into their homes, bringing resources and information. They foster long-term relationships, affording recipients the opportunity to "pay it forward” in one of a number of ways by volunteering, providing testimonials, constructing dog houses or assisting other families.
Kane’s Krusade also offers medical treatment, vaccinations, spay/neuter services, microchipping, grooming and behavioral training. The volunteers work in the poorest neighborhoods of Western Massachusetts to lend a helping hand to the pet owners that no one else is reaching. In 2014 alone, it has provided over $9,000 in medical care, over 60 individual in home training sessions and held a free vaccine clinic for 70 pets. It distributes about 1,250 pounds of dog food to families each month.
Sunday’s event featured videos from families that Kane’s Krusade has helped and speeches from people who have received services. Many of the families were there with their dogs to celebrate the day. It was very moving to see and hear from the people this organization has helped.
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I really cannot say enough positive things about this phenomenal group of volunteers and the incredible work they do. I would like to thank Kim George and all of the volunteers who make up Kane’s Krusade. I am humbled by your devotion and willingness to help those who need it most. I am proud to support you and all that you do! Thank you!!
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