Upstanding Local raises over $2,800 for Farm Sanctuary. Donations still accepted.
Posted on September 1, 2009
Filed Under Lake Tahoe Community
John Merryfield of Kings Beach doesn’t take animal abuse sitting down.
That’s why he stood up and paddled the circumference of Lake Tahoe to raise awareness for animals on factory farms and much needed funds for Farm Sanctuary, the nation’s leading farm animal protection organization.
John’s circumnavigation for Mario and our other furry friends took place Sept 11-13 and raised over $2,800!
“I was inspired to do this paddle during a visit to Farm Sanctuary, where I met Josh Hooten, publisher of Herbivore Magazine, who had just ridden his bike from Portland, Oregon to the organization’s shelter for rescued animals in Orland, California,” says Merryfield. “He raised a lot of awareness for animals trapped on factory farms and over $12,000 for Farm Sanctuary programs. I felt it was my turn to speak out for the voiceless.”
Merryfield has already swam and paddled across Tahoe, and this new endeavor had him navigate the 72-mile circumference of the lake in 3 days, camping at beaches at night. Eight people started the paddle. Some paddled for a mile, some for 25 miles and only two finished the 72 miles (John and his step-daughter Kim Kerrigan). Over $2,800 has been raised so far with over 60 people donating.
Donations can still be made www.firstgiving.com/johnmerryfield.
The creative fundraiser has generated a lot of buzz at Farm Sanctuary too. “We are thrilled that John Merryfield completed a stand-up paddle to benefit Farm Sanctuary’s vital rescue, education and advocacy work for animals abused on factory farms,” said Farm Sanctuary President and Co-founder Gene Baur. “His inspiring endeavor is a terrific example of how people can utilize their own special talent or hobby to make a real difference in the lives of farm animals. There are endless opportunities for involvement.”
Top Photo – Mario was a 45-pound newborn calf discovered on a dairy farm dead pile by a truck driver picking up dead cows. The dairy industry considers male calves worthless. The horrified driver helped get Mario to California’s Farm Sanctuary, where he’s now lovingly cared for and all grown up. Photo by Zarah Hedge for farmsanctuary.org.
