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Class To Raise Money For Pets Through 'Rescues,' 'Rides' Event
April 17, 2014
SHSU Media Contact: Marissa Nunez
Hot rods, muscle cars, and cute and cuddly puppies might not seem to go together; they will, however, on Saturday (April 26), when mass communication students host the annual “Rescues and Rides” charity car show and fundraiser.
The free fundraising event will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Shenanigan’s parking lot, located on 11th street in Huntsville.
The animal-friendly event will include a car show, face painters, a DJ, pools for pets to cool off in, and a raffle for items such as gift cards from local businesses and restaurants and a chance to go on a tour of Dan Phillip’s unique recycled houses.
The Rita B. Huff Animal Shelter also will bring adoptable animals, and Double Dave’s will hand out free slices of pizza.
All automobile makes and models, as well as motorcycles, can enter the charity car show for $20.
“This is an event for the whole family. Parents can enjoy the classic cars while kids can get their faces painted and spend time playing with the animals, and people in the community can learn about our cause and how to help,” said junior Maggie Stapleton, who helped organize the event, adding that leashed pets are also welcome.
All proceeds collected from car show entries, sponsorships and donations benefit Reggie’s Friends, a non-profit organization founded by assistant professor of mass communication LaChrystal Ricke-Radcliffe and her husband, Michael.
“I really wanted to do something different than the typical rescue and adoption event and thought this would be a fun way to fundraise,” Ricke said. “I want this to be fun for everyone and for it to be a happy day.”
The organization was named for Ricke’s 4-year-old American Pit Bull and is dedicated to “educating, advocating, and inspiring” people about adopting rescue animals, foster programs and various dog breeds, as well as helping animal rescues and shelters all over the country maintain sustainability by assisting them with day-to-day costs.
“There are a lot of rescues that have to shut down all the time due to funds, so what we try to do is supply them with things such as food, toys, bedding, kennels and help with vaccination funds,” Ricke said.
The event is organized by Ricke’s mass communication’s directed study course, in which students receive an opportunity to gain real-world experience by conducting independent research, organizing an event, and networking within the community.
“Rescues and Rides” was organized throughout the spring semester by Meagen Morrison, Mallory Collins, Johsua Shilbab, Marissa Nunez and Stapleton.
“It is obvious how passionate Ricke is about her work, so when I found out about the chance to be in her directed-study class, helping out her non-profit, I jumped at the chance,” Collins said.
In addition, on Wednesday (April 23), students, faculty and staff can meet Reggie and a few of his furry friends at the Reggie’s Friends table in the Lowman Student Center Mall Area from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Vehicle owners interested in the charity car show can pre-register through the Reggie’s Friends Facebook page or register on the day of the event.
For more information about Reggie’s Friends or “Rescue and Rides,” contact Ricke at reggiesfriends@gmail.com.
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