The Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) is dedicated to creating a world free from domestic violence by fostering empowerment, inclusion, and collaboration within the community. Driven by a belief in the potential of all individuals, this organization works to provide safe spaces, inspire recovery, and help people thrive. Committed to reconciliation, anti-racism, and equity for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, AARCS actively works to remove barriers and build inclusive, welcoming environments. Through curiosity and innovation, they embrace new approaches to break the cycle of violence, while their tenacious spirit and strong partnerships amplify their impact. Together, they aim to create lasting change and empower everyone to live a life free from violence.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
The Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) is a leading animal welfare organization in Alberta built on a foundation of compassion and kindness with a mission to help homeless animals in communities across Alberta and to provide community support programs to address the root causes of animal overpopulation and homelessness. These programs include Spay/Neuter Assistance, Trap-Neuter-Return, Pet Food Bank and Compassionate Veterinary Care.
What problem does it aim to solve?
AARCS plays a vital role in enhancing community well-being by tackling systemic issues like pet overpopulation and by providing community support programs that keep pets in their homes and out of shelters. Beyond their immediate impact on individual animals, AARCS contributes to the broader societal goal of fostering compassion and empathy towards our fellow creatures, promoting a harmonious coexistence between humans and animals.
When did you start/join the charity?
I joined the organisation in its infancy in 2006 as a volunteer and foster parent. I helped grow the organization and stepped up as Executive Director in 2010 and have held this position ever since.
What made you want to get involved?
I’ve always felt a deep connection with animals and a sense of responsibility toward them. Seeing the vulnerability of animals in need and knowing how much they depend on us inspired me to take action many years ago. Animal rescue gives me the chance to make a difference, whether it’s saving an animal and helping them find a loving home, or simply showing them kindness in a world that hasn’t always been kind. Today, I spent most of my time promoting our cause and helping to ensure we have the funds to maintain and grow our programs over hands-on rescue and care of the animals. Being part of their journey toward safety and happiness is incredibly rewarding.
What was the situation like when you started?
Shelters and rescue organizations faced significant challenges 20 years ago, including limited funding, overcrowding, high euthanasia rates, and large stray populations in rural areas due to a lack of spay and neutering. Public awareness around responsible pet ownership, such as the importance of spaying/neutering, regular veterinary care, and mental and physical enrichment, was not as widespread as today. Over the years we saw improvements with more people choosing adoption and getting proper veterinary care for their pets. Pets have become more like family than just a dog or just a cat. We were seeing improvements and the pandemic was the height when we couldn’t keep pets in shelters as they were being adopted so quickly. Sadly, it didn’t last and progress in improving animal welfare has fallen in recent years.
How has it changed since?
It got better for several years, but post-pandemic has seen a shift back with fewer people spaying and neutering (likely due to costs), more strays than in previous years and higher surrender rates. During the pandemic, many people adopted or purchased pets for companionship, leading to a surge in adoptions and fostering. However, post-pandemic, shelters have faced an increase in pet surrenders as financial challenges, overbreeding and lifestyle changes emerged. Shelters and rescues now struggle with higher demand and reduced donations.
On a positive note, community-based programs like pet food banks and low-cost veterinary services have become more prevalent to help families keep their pets, which is great news! While challenges remain, the pandemic ultimately brought a heightened awareness that animals are a great source of companionship for people and that their needs and well-being are important.
What more needs to be done?
Stronger enforcement of animal protection laws is essential to address neglect, abuse, and unethical breeding practices. Increased funding and support for shelters and rescue organizations are vital to help us manage rising demands, improve facilities, and provide critical services like low-cost veterinary care. It’s important we work on collaboration between governments, animal welfare organizations, and communities to create a more unified approach to animal welfare, including animal disaster response. By continuing to advocate for animals and investing in education, legislation, and resources, we can create a society where all animals are treated with respect and compassion.
How can our readers help?
Helping a rescue organization can take many forms, allowing individuals to contribute in ways that align with their skills, resources, and availability. Volunteering is one of the most direct ways to assist, whether it’s walking dogs, cleaning kennels, fostering animals, or helping with administrative tasks. Donations, both monetary and in-kind, are always appreciated, as we operate with limited budgets. Spreading awareness through social media or word-of-mouth helps connect animals with potential adopters and supporters. Participating in fundraising events or organizing community drives can also provide much-needed resources. For those with professional expertise, offering skills like graphic design, photography, or legal advice can greatly benefit. Finally, adopting or fostering an animal provides a direct impact by giving a rescued pet a loving home and freeing up space for others in need. Every effort, no matter how small, contributes to the mission of saving and improving the lives of animals.
Where can we follow you?
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