On a bright King’s Day morning, nearly 200 participants gathered at Eagle Kids Park for the 3rd Annual 1-Mile and 5-KM Charity Dog Walk/Run. This beloved event, organized by One Love Foundation in collaboration with Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, raised over $22,000 for the Stimami Sterilisami Foundation's national spay and neuter program, marking a significant stride in animal welfare in Aruba.
Starting the Day with Positivity
The event began with an energizing stretching session led by Zoe Loefstok, the founder of Beach Yoga Aruba. Her dynamic stretches set a positive tone for the day, preparing participants and their four-legged companions for the scenic paths along Eagle Beach.
A Route Filled with Fun and Compassion
As they walked or ran along the designated 1-mile and 5-kilometer courses, participants enjoyed the beautiful coastal views and the companionship of their furry friends. The event was not just a physical challenge but also a celebration of the bond between pets and their owners.
Celebrating Creativity and Compassion
The conclusion of the event featured exciting prizes and raffles. Awards were given for the Best Royal Costume, celebrating Dutch culture and royalty, and Best Rescue Hero Story, which highlighted touching tales of adoption and animal rescue.
Acknowledging Contributions
Special thanks go to:
One Love Foundation: In addition to their fundraising efforts in the US, they have been the creative force behind hosting the charity walk & run to support this vital cause for the past three consecutive years. This year, they achieved their highest fundraising milestone yet, raising an impressive $11,000. Additionally, their contribution of wonderful gift baskets for participants greatly enhanced the experience for all participants.
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: As the initiator and largest funder of the Stimami Sterilisami program, the resort has played a crucial role as a co-host and main organizer of the event. Every year, they match all funds raised by One Love Foundation, and this year was no exception, bringing the grand total raised during this event to $22,000 thanks to their generous donation. Their ongoing support and pivotal role in managing the logistics and facilitating volunteers were instrumental in ensuring the event's success.
Elite Productions & Entertainment: Special thanks to Managing Director, Krish Mahtani, for generously providing the sound system, truss, and staff for event support.
Compra & Purina: For their support and generous donations of Purina gift baskets, AGAME hydration drinks, and Tropic Ale bananas.
Tara Eco Supplies: For supplying compostable bowls, which were perfectly utilized as individual water stations for the pups, cups, and ArubaWater bottles for pet owners.
EMCO: For generously providing volunteer shirts for the event.
Zoe Loefstok from Beach Yoga Aruba: Who played a crucial role in setting a positive and energetic tone for the event by leading the pre-event stretching session.
Damaris Ridderstap from the Lanta 'Riba radio show on Power101.7 FM: Who not only showcased her excellent MC skills but also generously donated her time, bringing an infectious energy that truly enlivened the crowd. Her vibrant presence and dynamic enthusiasm were instrumental in keeping the event’s atmosphere upbeat and engaging throughout the day.
Community Impact and Ongoing Commitment
Stimami Sterilisami is immensely grateful to Sgt. Peppers Friends, Luna Foundation, Criojio Trappers, Animal Relief Foundation, New Life for Paws, and United Dogs, who brought pups to the event who were ready for adoption. Their participation, along with the overwhelming enthusiasm from attendees who registered to walk a rescue dog, was crucial to the event's success. It was truly heartwarming to witness participants teaming up with volunteers from these organizations, sharing stories of the pups on social media—a gesture that greatly enhances the animals' chances of finding loving, forever homes.
Stimami Sterilisami’s program is especially important because spaying and neutering are vital in effectively and compassionately managing the stray population, which in turn supports rescue organizations and improves the overall health and quality of life for animals. These efforts lead to fewer animals suffering in the streets, higher adoption rates, and a more balanced and compassionate community.
Founded in 2016 by Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, the Stimami Sterilisami Foundation continues to lead affordable and accessible spay and neuter initiatives, playing a critical role in addressing the population of stray animals in Aruba. This event not only raised significant funds but also heightened awareness of the importance of these efforts.
How You Can Help
For those inspired by this event and wishing to contribute to our cause, donations are welcome via the details provided below. Every contribution goes directly to subsidizing sterilization costs, ensuring a healthier future for animals in Aruba.
Donation Details:
Bank: Aruba Bank
Account Number: 6012630190
Account Name: FUNDASHON STIMAMI STERILISAMI
Swift Code: ARUBAWAX
Join us at our next event or contribute directly to our cause; every little bit helps create a compassionate community for our furry friends.
Comments