Head of fundraising at Animal Rescue Organisation, Lindsey Concer.
Image: Supplied
Head of fundraising at the Animal Rescue Organisation (ARO), Lindsey Concer, marked her birthday this year by raising funds to support the organisation’s sterilisation campaign.
Ms Concer, from Kenilworth, celebrated her 39th birthday on Tuesday, February 24, which coincided with World Spay Day. She set a goal to raise R21,450 - enough to cover the cost of 39 sterilisations, at R550 each.
“One for each year of my life,” she said.
Established in 1986, ARO is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. The organisation operates its main veterinary hospital in Ottery and runs mobile clinics in Philippi, Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, Mfuleni, and Samora Machel.
It also operates several charity shops and hosts a twice-monthly charity pop-up shop at Rondebosch Park.
Apart from providing medical care for dogs and cats, the organisation runs an ongoing sterilisation campaign. “Sterilisation is at the heart of what we do; it helps ensure sustainable pet care,” said Ms Concer.
She encouraged the public to support ARO, describing it as an organisation that works closely with pet owners and communities to provide long-term animal welfare solutions.
“The work we do is always focused on sterilisation; it is the only way we can achieve a manageable animal population,” she said.
Ms Concer added that education remains a key focus. “We want to inform and educate communities about the importance of sterilisation. It will help families save money in the long run, especially when it comes to caring for puppies and covering their healthcare costs,” she said.
Executive director Teagan Schwerin said World Spay Day is an important initiative that raises awareness about the vital role sterilisation plays in preventing the overpopulation of unwanted animals.
“I truly admire that Lindsey continues to advocate for animal welfare in her personal capacity. Choosing to celebrate her 39th birthday by raising funds for 39 spays is such a meaningful and impactful way to turn a personal milestone into purpose,” she said.
So far, Ms Concer has raised over R10 000. Her birthday fundraising campaign will run until Friday, March 8. Those wanting to support her can do so via her GivenGain page.
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