NSYMCA’S Fleece for Fur Babies Event Draws Community Pet Lovers

Northbrook, IL; March 2024: Local pet lovers donated essential animal supplies and made pet blankets for sheltered animals at the North Suburban YMCA’s third annual Fleece for Fur Babies held on March 10 at the Y in Northbrook. The event drew approximately 80 volunteers ranging between 6-75 in age.

This special volunteer event coordinated by the North Suburban YMCA’s Social Responsibility Committee, also collected pet supply donations included large bags of dog food, newspapers, chew toys, paper towels, kitty litter and the handmade blankets which will be donated to Wright-Way Rescue, Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter, and Heartland Animal Shelter. Also, in attendance was the Fleece for Fur Babies event sponsor, EVS Pet Urgent Care located in Northbrook next to the Pet Smart on Skokie Blvd. The veterinarian facility also donated hundreds of rubber chew toys for shelter dogs.

For many of the participants including the Finder Family, the pet blanket event was a family affair. “We decided to come out today because we have two dogs Leo and Gracie, and Leo is a rescue from PAWS,” said Aiden Finder age 8 and his sister Elayna age 10. “Leo is now 13 and my kids loved the idea of making other shelter dogs happy,” said Matt Finder.

“At the Y, we believe these events are so impactful to our community and are very important to keep families invested in our community needs,” said Kathy Fielding, NSYMCA CEO. “We find that teaching children small acts of kindness and volunteerism early on can create a domino effect and encourage them to keep paying it forward and giving back throughout their life.”

Other premiere sponsors of the NSYMCA Fleece for Fur Babies Event included Allstate, Illinois Bone and Joint Institute and Wintrust Community Banks.

For more Social Responsibility Volunteer events at the North Suburban YMCA, contact Shannon Sliwinski at ssliwinski@nsymca.org.

About the North Suburban YMCA

The North Suburban YMCA services Northbrook and 14 surrounding communities with programs and tools that help its residents become healthier, more connected, and confident, ensuring that everyone, regardless of age, income, or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. The NSYMCA focuses on Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility and is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, inclusive and welcoming to all in our community. Learn more at NSYMCA.org.