10 things you can do to help D'Arcy's Animal Rescue Centre Speaking out for those who can not speak for themselves is what D'Arcy's Animal Rescue Centre is all about. If you've ever met D'Arcy Johnston, you would know him to be a humble man with a huge heart. How else would you describe someone who started a pet rescue centre in his own basement, and transformed it from humble beginnings to the registered Charity is is today? D'Arcy's A.R.C. budget of approximately $500,000 per year is made up entirely of donations by private individuals and companies or all sizes. No government handouts or tax dollars going here (unless you count the fact that all donations over $10 are tax-deductible, which is a nice feature). D’Arcy Johnston recently announced a capital expansion project, the “iBarc for Darcy’s ARC” campaign, which will see the shelter become the LARGEST FOR-LIFE SHELTER IN CANADA . Despite the seemingly large budget, it does not take a lot to get involved. ."Can you pledge 55 cents a day?", D’Arcy asked the crowd of 500 supporters at the Annual Pawsta Dinner Fundraiser. So here are 10 ways YOU can help: 1) Volunteer at the Shelter Call up the Shelter and see if they need help. If you love animals, you'll find this a very rewarding experience. 2) Donate your pennies All that old 'shrapnel' can really add up. Next time you're in the area of 730 Century St, drop off those old coins. (nickels, dimes, quarters and larger always welcome) 3) Adopt your next (or first) pet from D'Arcy's Animal Rescue Centre With between 150-200 cats and dogs (yes, puppies and kittens too) under their care, you're sure to find a pet to match your personality. In fact, D'arcy's staff will help with that, to make sure that your pet is the right choice for you and your lifestyle. 4) Buy your pet supplies and food from D'Arcy's store A well-stocked store, which is about to expand even more, means that you'll find all the best pet foods, toys and other supplies right at D'Arcy's A.R.C. And of course, all the profits go right back into feeding, treating and caring for our furry four-legged friends. 5) Attend/Support their local fundraising events Thruout the year, D'Arcy's has a number of fun, fundraising events, including the Pawsta Dinner (Feb), the Stray for a Day (April), the Dog's Breakfast (July), the Kildonan Park Dog-Walk (September) and several other events and raffle-ticket selling functions. Find out more about them by doing Step #7 (Liking their facebook page) 6) Donate your Canadian Tire Money Got any loose Canadian Tire Money (or even money on the Canadian Tire Cards)? D'arcy's appreciates these, because they go a long way to purchasing some of the supplies they need to keep the shelter running. Drop off any Canadian Tire money right at D'Arcy's Shelter. 7) "Like" their Facebook page On Facebook? Simply like their page by going here. It will make it easier to learn about their fundraisers, and be notified if/when they need special supplies, such as #8. 8) Donate assorted supplies It takes a lot of cleaning supplies, bleach, newsprint, food and toys to keep 150 pets happy, healthy and clean. Every once in a while, D'Arcy's runs out, and they can always use a good supply of these items. 9) Donate clothing and household items to their Thrift stores Did you know that many of the so-called "Thrift Stores" only donate a small portion of their profits to charity? With D'arcy's two Thrift stores, 100% of the profits go right back into running the animal rescue centre. Find out more about the stores by going here. 10) Get your employees and customers involved One of our friends, Joanne Rempel from Colors, Beauty and Wellness, has a 'Casual Day', where employees can dress more casually than normal. However, they have to pay for the privilege by paying a small amount of cash. Joanne then collects this and donates it to D'Arcy's. My electrician, Andre Mager of T&A Electric, holds a Customer Appreciation Event, and via Silent Auctions and other fundraising ideas, managed to raise about $1,000 for D'Arcy's Shelter. Get your employees and customers involved, you'll find that animal charity is a heart-warming and easily supported cause. Bonus Tip: Buy or Sell your home with Bo Kauffmann (REMAX) For a limited time (til Nov 30th 2016) buy or sell a home (house or condo) in Winnipeg with me, and I'll donate $250.00 for EACH transaction, to D'Arcy's. Rules: You have to mention this article. This offer is not intended to solicit properties already listed with agents, or buyers already committed to working with other agents. But private sellers are always welcome to switch. #Charity #animalshelter #pets