I'm Not A Monster Announces Record-Breaking Results Of Its Nationwide Monster Holiday Drive

NEW YORK - July 1, 2018 - PRLog -- I'm Not a Monster (INAM) released results from its sixth annual shelter drive campaign run by its community leaders during the recent holiday season. The 2017 Monster Holiday Drive™ raised $867,686 for 125 shelters and rescues in the US, a 47% increase over the prior year's results. The volunteer-driven campaign results exceeded the organization's goal and demonstrated that communities throughout the United States understand the need of shelters and rescues in caring for homeless pets while they wait for their forever homes.

"The record results and positive outcome demonstrate that great things happen when we work together to help animals in the communities," says Imelda Suriato, Founder of INAM. "By working closely with shelters and rescues, we collect what is needed and distribute accordingly. And to ensure accountability, transparency and quantifiable results, our Monster Elves recorded every donation—kibbles, cans, treats, toys, blankets, crates, meds—and thanked every single donor on their social media pages."

The 36 Monster Elves efforts are having a significant impact in driving donors to purchase from online wish lists, enticing local businesses to participate, and increasing community involvements by articulating the importance of helping their local pets. Additionally, the campaign enjoyed increased support from national corporate partners such as Wellness® Natural Pet Food (WellPet Foundation), Earth Rated®, Happy Tail Pet Supply, Bzees® and SodaPup®, to local businesses and organizations.

Munchies Natural Pet Foods, with its multiple locations in Florida has participated in the drive since 2015. "Munchies is grateful to the Florida Monster Elf Rocky and I'm Not a Monster for helping a great cause and doing what it takes to orchestrate a successful pet food drive every holiday season," says Ann Hurley, owner of Munchies Natural Pet Foods. "We love the work that this organization does to help educate people about pitbull breeds and what amazing companions they are when given the chance. We enjoy being invited to participate in this great cause."

"Circle of Life Animal Hospital supports I'm Not a Monster because of their dedication in rescuing local dogs and their ability to turn these dogs' lives around," adds Dr. Laura Palma, owner of the veterinary hospital in Tampa, FL. "We love supporting local businesses, because we are one, and the best causes are the ones with four paws."

INAM's mission is improve the welfare of animals in shelters and rescues across the country. It works with shelters that demonstrated large strides in promoting adoptable animals and responsible ownership by building animal welfare programs in the community, as well as rescue organizations dedicated to providing transitional homes, veterinary care, nutrition and training for their animals under their care.

"Every year, it is estimated that up to eight million cats and dogs enter the 3,500 shelters in the US. The animals do not ask to be there and we want to give them a chance to get adopted or rescued in an environment that is conducive to get them there. The campaign rewards hard-working shelters and rescues. Without their commitment, many animals would never find their forever homes," explains Suriato.

"Vance County participates in the drive because we enjoy having a bond with fellow animal control agencies and rescues. We share ideas and information with each other to better our organization and community," says Frankie Nobles, Chief Animal Control Officer of Vance County, NC. Monster Elf Laila Ali coordinated donation drives for several NC county shelters—Vance, Edgecombe, Montgomery, Orange and Durham—and rescues which work closely with Nash and Wake counties. "The drive donations help us with supplies we wouldn't be able to afford otherwise. They better the stay for animals at the shelter in so many ways, and we at Vance County are thankful for everyone involved—and thankful to be included," added the 2017 NC Animal Control Officer of the Year.

The drive aims to be the Toys for Tots for animals in need, uniting the local communities in a common cause and inviting individuals to take action. "Whether it's donating a bag of food or hosting a donation box at a business, everything adds up," adds Suriato. "The spectacular result is proof that together, we can make a difference."

The full result can be found here: www.monsterholidaydrive.com

Since 2012, I'm Not a Monster has raised close to $2.7 million in supplies and enrichment items for more than 200 shelters and rescues across the US.

About I'm Not a Monster
I'm Not a Monster is an advocacy initiative that aims to dispel myths associated with misunderstood dog breeds, particularly pit bulls. Along with educating the public, the initiative promotes shelter pet adoption and networks animals in need. It is a 100%-privately funded philanthropic effort and all profits are donated to animal welfare organizations across the US. Monster Holiday Drive™ is a trademark of I'm Not a Monster. For more information, visit imnotamonster.org, and join us on Facebook: @ImNotaMonster