As founder of the 12k’s of Christmas, a holiday-themed fun run and walk held in December to help raise money for homeless animals, Darryl Toupkin is a devout pet owner and supporter of local shelters. He knows that adoptable pets and the shelters that provide them with a temporary home need help all year long, not just during the holidays.
This is especially true in the spring and summer months when more animals are breeding and shelters are bursting at the seams with dogs and cats that are looking for their forever homes. In addition, Toupkin said the shelters are currently especially full because the current economy has forced many homeowners to downsize and give up their beloved pets.
In an effort to help Maricopa County Animal Care and Control help care for and find homes for the many pets currently in its care, the 12k’s of Christmas, along with the help of sponsors Albertsons and Purina, is matching the adoption fee for 120 animals that are adopted from the shelter. The fundraiser began on July 25.
Called Christmas in July, it’s a great way for Kyrene Corridor residents to help another animal waiting to be adopted while also taking home a wonderful new family member, says Toupkin. All area residents have to do, he said, is mention “Christmas in July” while adopting a dog or cat at one of MCACC’s Valley locations.
“I’ve been really touched by all of the animals that are being left behind because of the downturn of the economy,” he said. “People are losing their homes, and pets are sometimes being left in apartments and homes. So I thought, why not do something to help make a difference?’”
Aprille Hollis, public information officer for MCACC, said the shelter in Mesa serves a lot of people from Tempe and Chandler who are looking to adopt a pet.
“We are always busy during the summer months and need creative ways to find more homes for our pets,” she said, adding that she is “so grateful” for Toupkin’s efforts to help.
Toupkin said he is also grateful for the help he is receiving from his sponsors, including the three Albertsons stores in Chandler and one in Tempe. He hopes that people who adopt a new pet as part of the Christmas in July event will bring their new family member to the 12k’s of Christmas event this December, which includes a Santa’s Pet Village.
But in the meantime, he hopes his fundraiser will help 120 adoptable animals survive and thrive this summer.
“I just want to try to raise extra money for the animal shelter, plus also raise awareness about the many pets who need homes,” he said.
For more information about 12k’s of Christmas, visit www.12kchristmas.com
