Two animal rescues are joining forces for a day of golf, fine dining and fun activities at Oak Island Resort on June 17.
This is a first time event for Strays That Can't Pay (STCP) and Virden Pet Network (VPN). These charities are also receiving help for this event from Brandon and Area Lost Animals – BALA is supporting the efforts.
STCP began when Alicia Hoemsen of Elkhorn saw a need to help stray animals in the area. It has become a registered, non-profit front-line rescue, which works primarily with the First Nations Communities.
VPN is billed as a friendly, small-town pet rescue and adoption service in Southwestern Manitoba, also a registered charity.
Both charities rescue animals in need and through a spay and neuter program with animal clinics, work to reduce the overpopulation of stray dogs and cats; and to help loving families to find just the right pet.
With an influx of animals requiring extensive medical attention, STCP has had to turn away a number of needy cases in recent months.
VPN has stepped up to take some extra animals at this time, but these rescues rely on donations.
Margaret James from Elkhorn, a volunteer with VPN, who is working to help make this golf tournament a success, explains the value of working together for this, their first tournament.
“VPN is a small group and it is a big undertaking,” she says, adding, that this being the first such event, there is a learning curve.
The volunteers of both groups are relentless, adventurous fundraisers. They have support from businesses and groups in Elkhorn, Virden and Brandon who have donated items. Golfers will receive gift bags and a chance to win raffle prizes.
But the real draw is golfing on the 18-hole champion resort. Oak Island is rated as one of the ten best golf courses in Manitoba.
For those not golfing, Oak Lake Beach is a beautiful spot to visit and, non-golfers are welcome to join the charity event for supper at Riel’s Restaurant at Oak Island Resort.
The red seal chef will put on a gourmet meal, but reservations are a must.
Registration forms and other details can be found online at straysthatcantpay.ca or www.virdenpetnetwork.org
