The Humane Society of Central Washington is off to a grand start in the ASPCA’s National 100K Challenge. With a first place finish out of the entire nation in the first round, Outreach Coordinator Erica Seaver-Engel speaks for all staff and volunteers when she shares how “overwhelming and humbling” the outpouring of community support has been thus far. The only shelter in the entire state of Washington that has been voted in the finals, the Human Society of Central Washington is competing against much larger shelters in the contest to win $100,000. It is interesting to note that many are not aware that the Humane Society of Central Washington is not funded by the government and relies heavily on public donations. Currently undergoing remodeling to expand the capacity by 40 animals, the Humane Society of Central Washington looks forward to a more open lobby that will include a visiting room as well.

Starting Wednesday, August 1 and continuing through October 31, The Humane Society of Central Washington will be increasing their social media engagement using the hashtag #100KChallenge. As Vaughn Merry, Director of Administration & Program Development, states, “it’s a chance to save even more lives.” With an Adoption Counter on their website, www.yakimahumane.org, an Adoption page dedicated to newly adopted animals, and pictures of adopted pets showcased at the shelter, it is clear the team at the Humane Society of Central Washington, the only shelter in Yakima County, is working hard to find homes for 7000 strays or owner-surrendered pets that come through their doors annually, an average of 20 per day. Support of local businesses like Pet Pantry and Mr. Meow Feline Spa has been great, each hosting litters of kittens and working with the Humane Society of Central Washington to have them successfully adopted; the shelter is laser-focused on winning. Toyota of Yakima has generously agreed to sponsor the “Certified Used Pets” promotion, where every Wednesday throughout the 100K Challenge the Humane Society of Central Washington will offer a 2-for-1 adoption rates. Executive Director Alan Landvoy, who has been involved with the Humane Society of Central Washington for just over 9 years, shares: “Adoptions are really what will determine [our] success.” The Humane Society of Central Washington has set the goal to double their average adoptions over the next 90 days. The key is remembering that “it is not a sprint, but a long race.”

The Humane Society of Central Washington reminds the public that they can help in many ways aside from making a donation of either time or money. Fostering a pet in your home, (food, litter, and veterinary care is provided free of charge) coming to the shelter and walking a dog are all just as helpful as spurring 100K Challenge conversations on Twitter and Facebook using the #100KChallenge hashtag. “You helped us get in, now help us win!” says Landvoy.

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