'Poorly Drawn Pets': Animal Shelter Raises Money with Interesting Artwork
Michelle Milliken
Photo courtesy of The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County
An annual tradition with questionable art is back, and it benefits shelter animals.
The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County – in Washington State - recently held its sixth annual "Poorly Drawn Pets" fundraiser, in which unique, heartfelt, and perhaps less-than-polished portraits make their way to shelter supporters.
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It works by swapping a supporter’s $25 dollar donation and a picture of their pet for a one-of-a-kind portrait created by volunteers. Though these well-meaning volunteers are not typically skilled artists, their work is still popular. Last year, the event brought in more than $23,000 and sent out 750-plus portraits.
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Beth Brooks, director of development for the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, says, “Our artists don’t promise perfection, but they guarantee one-of-a-kind portraits that spark joy and become cherished keepsakes for years to come. Our volunteers and community look forward to this event every year. It’s a fun way to celebrate or memorialize pets while making a meaningful impact for the animals in our organization’s care.”
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There are quite a few animals in their care. The shelter says they find homes for more than 6,000 pets each year, while they reunite more than 1,000 with their owners. Donations also support their work in the community, including their Pet Food & Supply Pantry, monthly Vaccine and Wellness Clinics, and their Spay/Neuter and Wellness Voucher program, which benefit thousands of animals each year.
To learn more about the shelter, or to make a donation, click here! Keep scrolling to see more poorly drawn pets.
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
Michelle has a journalism degree and has spent more than seven years working in broadcast news. She's also been known to write some silly stuff for humor websites. When she's not writing, she's probably getting lost in nature, with a fully-stocked backpack, of course.