ways to #livekinder and share your skills
What if we started living a little kinder?
This year we are encouraging everyone to #LiveKinder and tread a little lighter – especially when it comes to our relationship with animals. With a few small changes we can all #LiveKinder - let’s be kinder in what we eat, kinder in what we do and kinder in how we treat animals and the planet. Every little action can have a huge impact, and collectively we have the power to protect animals and the planet. Whilst we all are still living with the fallout of COVID-19 we are becoming increasingly aware of the link between the way we treat animals and the planet, and the subsequent emergence of global pandemics. Over 75% of pandemics have come from animals, including wildlife and farmed animals. The message is clear - we need to change the way we live. Are you prepared to #LiveKinder?
These changes do not need to be big to make a significant impact. Even a few small steps in the right direction can, and will, make a big difference.
Click here if you would like to know more about the link between animal welfare and pandemics.
ways to #livekinder and share your skills
Shoot with your camera
If you are a photographer or videographer, volunteer your time and shoot stills or video clips of wild animals or dogs and cats who are up for adoption. You can donate the photos or video material to the charity as animal welfares are always in need of updated photos or video material to use on the websites and social media channels.
You’re too kind!
Non-profits rely on funding to do their mandated work. By donating services or products, you help alleviate the money needed to spend on things such as buying stationary supplies or paying legal costs. In donating your time or products, you relieve the pressure on organisations and enable them to purchase other critical items that might need funding. Many animal welfares have voluntary positions where you can assist with social media, fundraising, event planning, taking care of animals, legal issues and many other To Do’s that could fit your skillset.
Lead from the top
Serving on the board of directors of an animal welfare means you can provide leadership to help guide your favourite rescue into a strong future. A board is usually made up of a variety of people, from all different backgrounds and a variety of skill sets – you don’t even have to be directly involved in animal welfare or even have pets of your own! People with skills such as financial management, legal expertise, public relations and marketing, education/teaching and human resources are sought after; as well as individuals who have good and strong connections with local business and business types and people who are keen to start up specific projects to benefit the shelter or welfare. If this sounds like something you would be perfect for, contact your nearest animal welfare and ask whether they have an opening on their board.
Help shape the future for animals
Teaching compassion and kindness towards animals is the only way we will have a better future for animal. Many psychologists also believe that kids who are cruel to animals grow up to be cruel to humans as well. Take it upon yourself to teach children to treat animals with respect and kindness. Volunteer as a ‘teacher’ at your local shelter or welfare and ask to assist in their education initiatives, you might even want to do talks at your community library, school or aftercare facility. Find educational resources and ideas here.