It’s National Clients’ Day and we want to take a moment to thank all our private foundation clients for the incredible work they’re doing to create a better world. Take the Wags and Menace Make a Difference Foundation, for example. We caught up with President Cindy Lee who has dedicated her foundation—and her life’s work—to saving animals and ending animal cruelty. Whether she’s saving wild mustangs in Nevada or shelter dogs in Connecticut, she tackles ambitious goals with unflagging generosity and energy. Here’s what she had to say about her hands-on approach, her challenges, and her “spiritual obligation” to be the voice of animals everywhere.
What cause or issue is most important to you and why?
I’ve been through some difficult times, and animals have always been there for me. I am therefore dedicated to ending animal cruelty in all its forms, whether that’s providing medical treatment for sick animals, rescuing wild mustangs, or educating the next generation on kindness, compassion, respect, and responsibility for animals. The Wags and Menace Make a Difference Foundation provides medical treatment for sick animals in Colorado, the United States, and in five of seven continents. The foundation funds organizations and activities that benefit animals, and inspires, teaches, and motivates other individuals and organizations to achieve similar objectives.
What inspired you to launch a private foundation?
I lost my father when I was very young and it was devastating. I still deal with it every day. I was the youngest of three, and animals were there for me. They were my teachers. I feel that I have a spiritual obligation to be their voice.
What do you know now about being a grantmaker that you wish you knew starting out?
I did not realize how much my volunteering impacted the growth of fundraising for sick and homeless animals. It’s not just about donating the money—it’s about showing up. And I showed up before I had the money. I try to build momentum with people; be infectious; be part of the solution. Volunteering is a spiritual, ethical component to being a human being. That’s why I was pulling horses out of mud during a flood in Northern Colorado. I want to be involved.
Want to Read The Rest of the Story?
Check out our full interview with Cindy Lee here. Also, be sure to check out our client stories for even more giving inspiration!
Want to Learn More?
Whether you’re creating your first private foundation or want to professionalize your foundation with robust tools and applications purpose-built for your needs, Foundation Source is here to help. Schedule a call with us here or reach us at 800-839-0054. Together, let’s #begiving.
