A scene during the event.
SIMPSON BAY--The dog-loving craft Vodka – Tito’s Handmade Vodka and Corona distributed by CC1 St. Maarten, held a Thanksgiving fundraising beach party at Karakter and raised US $3700 for Animal Defenders St. Maarten and St. Maarten Nature Foundation, which supports the local animals with spay/neuter operations-aftercare and the coral restoration project.
The fundraiser featured a family fun day which included dogs, an extended Thanksgiving brunch, entertainment for animals and humans and a raffle. An estimated 300 dogs and nature-loving supporters attended the event.
“We are delighted to have held a spectacular fundraising event for Animal Defenders St. Maarten and Nature Foundation St. Maarten. It’s such a fantastic opportunity for people and dogs to have fun while raising awareness and funds for such a worthy cause,” Marketing Trade Coordinator of Tito’s Handmade Vodka St. Maarten Chanita Kamerling said in a press release.
“As the event was a great turnout, Tito’s Vodka matched the initial funds collected during the event of US $1,875 which set the final amount at US $3,700 to be shared equally for both organisations. With this humble gesture Tito’s Vodka strives to improve the lives of pets and their families far and wide,” Kamerling said.
Karakter owner Mark Meijjer said Karakter is “very proud” to have contributed to such a special event. “We are a dog-friendly bar and restaurant and we do our best to make animal lovers and their pets comfortable. This is why my wife Danita and I decided to donate US $1,000 to both foundations to show our support,” he said. “It’s really great to see that local initiatives as Tito’s Vodka and Corona host events like this. We want to thank them, Karakter and all the people who attended and donated to the Animal Defenders and Nature Foundation.”
Corona St. Maarten representative Jade Ladal said Corona is a brand that was born on a beach. “It exists to inspire the world to disconnect from routine and reconnect with your essential nature,” Ladal added. “The event last weekend was a perfect example of it. With these funds, the two foundations have now more leverage to preserve and restore the nature of the island on one hand, and save animals.”
Organisers thanked participants, sponsors and those who contributed to make the event a success.
