10-05-2025
Dakin Humane Society hosts annual ‘Will Run for Cookies 5k'
WESTFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Dakin Humane Society hosted its 4th annual 'Will Run for Cookies 5k' on Saturday.
In 2022, volunteers with Dakin Humane Society helped rescue a kitten named Beanie and her siblings before a winter storm, and Beanie got a warm place to call home. This story inspired nearly 200 people to raise money for other animals in the first 'Will Run for Cookies 5k' four years ago at Stanley Park in Westfield.
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Now, thousands of animals will get the chance to find a new home. Saturday marks the fourth annual race in the same place. Dakin creates a happy and healthy life for 20,000 animals each year through many programs and services.
'One is our adoption program, our pet health center, and then our spay and neuter clinic,' said Stacey Price, Director of Development and Marketing at Dakin Humane Society. 'So all the funds raised here today goes to support those three main programs.'
These reasons were why over 600 people participated in running or walking through and around the park with their dogs or by themselves.
'I support Dakin and all they do for the animals in this valley,' said participant Debra J'Anthony. 'This is my third time coming out on this run.'
Some even traveled from Connecticut to participate in the 2k walk option again.
'My wife did a lot of rehab with animals,' said participant John Grundstrom. 'Exclusively hawks and owls and even squirrels, and I think it's a great cause.'
The goal was to raise $10,000. The participants helped exceed that in raising more than $30,000. At the end of the race, there were 18 prizes awarded for each bracket, the first 5k dog and human participant, top fundraiser, and fundraising team.
The Humane Society gave away sweet treats and cookies. It was their way of saying thank you to all the participants once they reached the finish line.
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