Pet adoptions: Paws and purpose

The Riverside Animal Shelter buzzed with excitement as volunteers prepared for the morning’s festivities. Custom cornhole boards decorated with Crafts That Care’s custom designed decals were set up throughout the outdoor area, while crafting stations displayed colorful supplies for the day’s activities.

“Our ‘Crafts for Critters’ fundraiser exceeded every expectation,” beamed Linda Thompson, the shelter’s volunteer coordinator. “We hosted a cornhole tournament where teams competed on custom boards decorated with Crafts That Care supplies, plus we had crafting stations for decorative food bowls and adoption announcement cards. The community response was incredible.”

The check presentation drew a crowd of supporters, many holding their newly adopted pets. The $8,000 donation would fund spay and neuter services for 85 animals—a significant step toward reducing pet overpopulation in their county.

“What makes this partnership special is how it brings people together,” explained Linda Rodriguez from Riverside Animal Shelter. “Families craft together, learn about animal welfare, and leave with both a handmade creation and a new understanding of how they can help.”

Behind Linda, volunteers continued preparing adoption kits, each containing a handcrafted welcome card and small toy made during the fundraising workshops. Three kittens in the nearby kennels wore tiny bow ties created by local children using Crafts That Care’s fabric scraps.

“Every sticker placed, every letter applied, every charm created—it all adds up to saving lives,” Linda said, gesturing toward the bustling adoption area. “This donation will help us find forever homes for hundreds of animals this year.”