Community Chest Spotlight: Animal Alliance

The 2014-15 Sewanee Community Chest Fund Drive is underway. The power of the people helping people makes a difference in the life of the community. Sponsored by the Sewanee Civic Association, the Community Chest raises money yearly for local charitable organizations serving the area. This year’s goal is $101,000.

This week we shine the spotlight on the Animal Alliance-South Cumberland (AASC).

The mission of the AASC is to reduce the number of unwanted and abandoned dogs and cats in Grundy County, and the areas of Marion and Franklin Counties located on the South Cumberland Plateau, by providing affordable and accessible spays and neuters. They are committed to reducing the number of unintended litters, which can lead to neglect, cruelty, and euthanasia. The AASC also educates the public about the importance of animal sterilizations.

Since the program began in 2008, the AASC has helped to spay and neuter more than 2,800 dogs and cats. The organization also funds the sterilization of strays before foster families rehome them. Last year, three of the volunteer foster homes took in 266 puppies and adult dogs.

The organization helps to transport the animals to Wally’s Friends, Paul’s Clinic, and Animal Care Center. They also work with Fido Fixers, which is a mobile clinic that periodically comes to the Plateau.

The Animal Alliance is requesting $1,250, which will help to sterilize 25 dogs and/or cats. The pet owners are asked for a co-payment of $14, which covers $12 for a rabies vaccination and a $2 fuel fee for the transport van. Animal Alliance pays for these charges if an owner cannot afford it. For low-income pet owners, the organization also pays for any other services deemed necessary by the veterinarian at the time of the surgery such as antibiotics, ear mite treatment, and pain and worm medications.

The AASC is entirely volunteer led. Their biggest expense is paying for the spay and neuter program.

The goal of the Sewanee Community Chest is to help citizens by funding the community. The Community Chest is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and donations are tax-deductible. Send your donation to Sewanee Community Chest, P.O. Box 99, Sewanee, TN 37375.