Meet Chris Gelsleichter and Colleen Pearce of C&C Rescue Foundation.
Chris and Colleen started hosting their annual C&C Rescue Rally fundraiser 11 years ago at Entersection Bar in Sarasota. As animal lovers, they started the event to help raise funds for and draw attention to local nonprofit rescues. Each year they choose a few animal rescues to benefit from the rally and split the funds between them. The event has grown so much over the years that they had to find a larger venue. About four years ago they moved the Rally to Sun N Fun in Sarasota. The event, which features live music, yummy BBQ, drinks, raffles and a 50/50 drawing is now held in the large outdoor pavilion.
David Hanneman, a supporter, philanthropist and friend of Chris & Colleen’s, noticed how the event had grown and approached the ladies about creating their own 501c3 nonprofit. With their blessing, David put the plan into action, donating to their organization as well as filing for their 501c3 and started work on their upcoming website. As a 501c3 they will be able to offer not only their annual huge fundraiser but also smaller individualized fundraisers for rescues in need.
Chris tells us the most rewarding part of what they do is to help those who care for those without a voice. She goes on to say “It’s very important to our community to see the need of our rescues, especially those people who open their homes to help animals. With all the building and growth, wildlife is forced from their habits, people move and leave behind pets, they also buy pets they had no idea the care and abandon them.”
They recognize that it takes a village to do what they do and they rely on the help of friends and family to make their events a success. Chris and Colleen spend many hours a week committed to helping the animals and their carers. When not working, or fundraising, Chris says they enjoy golfing and bowling.
Chris reminds us to Adopt don’t shop and make sure you spay and neuter your pets. Also, if you give of your heart, you CAN make a difference.
To contact Chris email at critter_391@hotmail.com
Note: In 2020, Farmhouse was invited to join C&C’s rescue rally as one of the beneficiaries. We quickly became friends with Chris and Colleen who also became volunteers at the sanctuary. While volunteering they saw firsthand the urgent project needs to raise a swampy area behind the horse stalls and in the kangaroo feed area. They decided to host a special fundraiser for FANS. on June 13th from 1-4 pm at the American Legion Post 266 in Sarasota. Join us for live music, meet and greet with some of the FANS animals, food, drinks, pool tournament, raffles and a 50/50 drawing. To learn more visit: https://fb.me/e/2jQvuqCEb
Most loving people you will ever meet! They truly care about all the animals and hosts successful events that really make a difference with local rescues.
Thanks to wthe support of local people , friends and family.
Thank you Connie! We couldn’t agree more. We enjoy working with Chris and Colleen.