National Animal Advocacy Day
National Animal Advocacy Day is observed on April 30 each year. A day to recognize a cause that is very close to our hearts! We know that you, our wonderful HSSLC supporters, are fighting for animals all year long, but this is the perfect time for all of us to pause and ask ourselves how we can make our work together even more effective. We have some tips on how to be the best, strongest voice for animals.
Four effective tips on how to advocate for animals:
1. Demonstrations
Demonstrations are great for getting your message across clearer and quicker building public awareness about a particular issue. This method is a good opportunity to educate, hand out information, and gather signatures for petitions. Demonstrations can range from a small group of individuals holding signs in front of a business, march, parade, or to a larger more organized rally. These are all examples of public demonstrations, groups of people organized to come together at a specific place and time to call attention to a specific issue. Although we often think of demonstrations as negative–against “something,” they can also be positive. They are usually meant to influence the way things are done, or the way people think.
2. Share on Social Media
One of the best, most accessible tools modern animal advocates have at our disposal for outreach is social media. The ease with which we can capture attention and raise awareness on issues and causes is without historical precedent. Social media makes it easy in promoting our advocacy issues, educating the public, and connecting us with people who share the same passion. It also allows us to connect with new donors, rescue partners, volunteers, and new supporters. You can spread the word about helping animals by sharing videos, images, and information by posting it on all social media platforms. You can also ask friends and family to share on their accounts as well.
3. Everyday Actions
You can be an effective animal advocate every day, wherever you go, by wearing T-shirts, pins or adding a bumper sticker to your car. A variety of animal welfare organizations offer T-shirts and sweatshirts for sale with good graphics and messages. These items will be a conversation starter wherever you go. To be even more effective, carry literature with you so you can follow up a friendly conversation with information that the person can read later.
4. Donating
Animal protection organizations need your financial support! Most rely 100 percent on donations. If you want to be most effective, identify an organization to donate to, and sign up for a monthly automatic payment plan. That way they can count on you giving every month and plan their campaigns more effectively. Double the power of your donation and give during a matching gift campaign. Matching campaigns can make a significant impact for charities. Interested in learning more about our monthly pawtnership program? Click here to learn more.
