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Take The Lead provides direct services, support and care for people in the sport of purebred dogs who suffer the devastation of life-threatening or terminal illness.
WATERTOWN, NY – In 2005, its 13th year of operation, Take The Lead established an all-time high with $314,713 in distributions in care and support of people in the sport of purebred dogs.
The final figure included $133,628 distributed from a special fund created specifically for victims of the devastation of the Gulf State disasters last fall. The final total surpassed the previous high of $207,515 in 2004.
“Thanks to our donors and members, and the hard work of people around the country in fundraising activities, we continue to be there for people in the sport of purebred dogs when they need help,” said Take The Lead Chairman Edd E. Bivin.
Take The Lead was established as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit foundation in 1993. It began to distribute financial support shortly thereafter to individuals and families facing the realities of life-threatening and often financially devastating illnesses and now has provided nearly $1.5 million in assistance since its inception.
In 2005, payments for housing expenses (mortgages, real estate taxes, rents) accounted for 35% of the disbursements. Funding for medical expenses, hospital charges and prescriptions totaled 32%, and the remainder of support went for expenses associated with utilities, funerals, auto payments and more.
Geographically, the distribution of funds continues to reach all areas of the country. In 2005, the regional breakdown was as follows: Northeast 21%, Southeast 19%, East Central 19%, West Central 31%, and West 10%.
“Exact distribution in any given year varies,” said Mr. Bivin, “but we want to be there for anyone with a need, no matter where they live, if they fall within our mission and meet our criteria.”
For further information about Take The Lead, log on to www.takethelead.org or call 1-800-814-1123, or write to Take the Lead, P.O. Box 6353, Watertown, NY 13601. All inquiries, applications and awards are held in strictest confidence. MEDIA CONTACT: Thomas Bradley, 3d. (800) 814-1123 dogs@twcny.rr.com
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