American Heritage Credit Union held its inaugural Spring Fling Doggie Dash on Saturday, April 14, 2018 on the grounds of American Heritage’s headquarters on Red Lion Road in Northeast Philadelphia. The community and their furry friends enjoyed a beautiful day participating in a walk and fun run, costume contest, and mingling with their local community members to support Emancipet and the Kids-N-Hope Foundation.
Special guest Lucy Noland, FOX29 News’ Evening Co-Anchor, was on hand to support the event and judge the doggie costume contest. Along with the contest and fun run, local vendors and community organizations, such as the Ronald McDonald House, had booths set up to interact with the participates and show their support.
The Doggie Dash raised $3,000 to support Emancipet and the Kids-N-Hope Foundation. Emancipet offers spay/neuter and preventive services to keep pets healthy. The organization has relationships with several local pet-friendly organizations, and is supported by Petsmart Charities.
“American Heritage partnered with Emancipet in 2017 to provide credit union membership to their employees and saw this as a perfect opportunity to strengthen our community outreach in hosting the first Dog Walk fundraiser,” stated Dorian Smith, American Heritage Vice President of Business Development.
The Kids-N-Hope Foundation provides financial support for the Music Therapy Program at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Music therapy is the prescribed use of music by a qualified person to effect positive changes in the psychological, physical, cognitive, or social functioning of individuals with health or educational problems.
“Our first doggie dash was a huge success and we could not have wished for better weather,” stated Dorian Smith. “We are pleased to continue to support our pet community. Pets provide an immeasurable impact and help further teach all of us about acceptance and compassion.”
Lucy Noland, FOX29 News’ Evening Co-Anchor, Dorian Smith, American Heritage Credit Union’s Vice President of Business Development, and Cindy Hughes, Emancipet’s Director of Philanthropy.