BY SAM SCOTT
The Burlington Humane Society hosted its 9th annual Ruff Ride this past Sunday. The fundraising event allows motorcycle riders to take part in a group ride for the shelter.
The event included live entertainment, a barbecue and a silent auction. A number of vendors were also giving out free grab bags filled with product for all of the riders.
The first ride left at 10 a.m. with approximately 50 riders leading the way. The ride lasted two hours and went through scenic routes throughout the GTA.
“For my first ride I was very impressed by the set-up and coming together of so many people that love to ride, I will definitely be coming back next year,” said Brandon Fleming, one of the riders.
The money raised by the event goes back to the shelter and towards the animals in their care. Alex Zych, event coordinator says that, “Depending on the need at that moment, it may go towards covering the cost of surgery for an animal or new cages and supplies. We always have a need and the money raised at a successful event can go a long way”.
Planning such a large event took Zych around four to six months. “Planning includes simple details like when and where will we hold an event, to much larger tasks like who can we call on for prizing (reaching out to 75 to 100 businesses for auction items), getting any necessary permits, marketing the event at low cost and gathering volunteers,” said Zach.
During the event, people were able to go inside the shelter to see the animals that are up for adoption. Right now they have a number of cats and kittens available. Fleming toured the shelter. “Seeing all of the kittens in the cages playing really makes me tempted to adopt one today, I don’t know how my dog would react though”.
The event raised thousands of dollars for the shelter. For more information on adoption or events, contact Alex Zych, at alexazych@burlingtonhumane.ca.