Lincoln, MA (June 27, 2022) – For the second consecutive year, Phinney’s, a nonprofit that helps low-income people in Massachusetts keep their pets, has been named a “Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, a leading website for community recommendations of more than 1.6 million charities and nonprofits.
“Inflation, rising pet food prices, and potential pet supply shortages can hit low-income people and their pets the hardest,” said Morgan Ritz, Phinney’s president. “Receiving the Top-Rated Nonprofit Award is a testament to our volunteers who continue to work tirelessly during this tough time to help our clients weather this economic storm.” Recognizing the difference Phinney’s makes in local communities, Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits, noted this award is not just based on our good work. It’s also a testament to the tremendous support we receive from people who have direct experience working with us as shown through the rating and number of reviews Phinney’s has received from volunteers, donors, and aid recipients, she said. “Phinney’s has so much heart. The work has a tremendous impact—allowing people to keep their dear pets through hardship,” said Phinney’s supporter Mara Voukydis, who calls our mission of helping people and animals a “total win/win.” “As we celebrate receiving this distinguished award, we are focused on spreading the word about our mission. We anticipate more people and pets will need our help in the coming months given the current state of the economy,” Ritz added. “And we are confident that given our community of support we can rise to the challenge and meet those needs.” ABOUT PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends, Inc.), an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, helps Massachusetts residents going through financial hardships keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to (617) 203.2053 or visit phinneys.org/get-help. Visit our Media Hub to learn more about our mission and to download our Media Kit. ABOUT GREATNONPROFITS GreatNonprofits is the leading site for donors and volunteers to find stories and ratings of nonprofits. Stories on the site influence 30 million donation decisions a year. Visit www.greatnonprofits.org for more information. (Lincoln, MA, March 21, 2022) – With many pandemic restrictions lifted, Phinney’s, an all-volunteer nonprofit that helps keep people and their beloved pets together, is exhibiting at the outdoor Paws in the Park event, Sunday, May 15 in Sudbury, Mass.
“At Phinney’s, we lend a helping hand to those who can’t afford vet care, pet food and supplies so they don’t have to go through the heartbreaking ordeal of surrendering their pets,” says Morgan Ritz, Phinney’s president. “Our mission is an important stop-gap for reducing pet homelessness. We look forward to meeting new people and seeing old friends at Paws in the Park. We'll be talking about how Phinney's addresses the need of veterinary treatment and pet supplies that low-income people in Massachusetts face. And we'll be supporting the good work Save a Dog does in sheltering and placing dogs and cats into loving homes,” Ritz adds. Paws in the Park takes place rain or shine from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Longfellow’s Wayside Inn, 72 Wayside Road, Sudbury, Mass. This family- and dog-friendly event includes a group walk (taking place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.), an agility tryout ring, a parade of adoptable dogs, doggie games, a raffle and silent auction, food and more, including non-profit exhibitors like Phinney’s as well as vendors. For more information, including admissions rates, visit Paws in the Park website. ABOUT PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends, Inc.), an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, helps Massachusetts residents going through financial hardships keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to (617) 203.2053 or contact us online. (Groton, MA, March 2, 2022) – All-volunteer nonprofit Phinney’s, currently celebrating its 25th anniversary, has appointed Morgan Ritz as its new president.
Ritz has a passion for animal welfare causes and brings approximately 20 years of volunteering experience, most recently as president of The Cat Connection nonprofit based in Waltham. “I am incredibly excited to have this opportunity to help Phinney’s. I have long been a fan of the organization’s mission and impressed by the hard and important work done by its volunteers and outgoing president Daniela Caride,” says Ritz. “I am so looking forward to working with this amazing team to help people and their pets stay happily together." Ritz takes over for Caride, who after 10 years as president and 15 years as a volunteer, has decided to step down from this leadership role and continue her work as an advisor to Phinney’s Board of Directors. “Words cannot express our Board’s gratitude for all Daniela has done for the organization,” says Director Laura Scott, Phinney’s Communications Chair. “We are thrilled that Daniela will continue on as Board Advisor, so that Morgan can learn the ins and outs of how Phinney’s operates, and we can continue to meet our day-to-day and strategic goals.” “Being President of Phinney’s during this past decade taught me so much about the needs of the community, and the need to listen, be kind and generous to one another,” says Caride. “As board advisor, I look forward to continuing to contribute in many more ways.” Under Ritz’s leadership, Phinney’s looks forward to continuing to serve pet parents in Massachusetts who need a helping hand. ABOUT PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends, Inc.), an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, helps people in Massachusetts experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to (617) 203.2053 or visit https://www.phinneys.org/contact-us.html. Redstone American Grill in Burlington, Mass., is partnering with Phinney’s to have a positive impact in the community.
During the month of November and December, the restaurant is featuring several dishes as well as cocktails and mocktails on its menu on behalf of Phinney’s. That means Redstone will donate $1 from each of the four food and three beverage options purchased during the two-month charitable campaign to Phinney’s. “Phinney’s goal is to raise $2,000 in two months with the help of Redstone American Grill,” says Daniela Caride, president of Phinney’s. With those funds, Phinney’s can help more dedicated pet parents get pet supplies, pay for tests needed to diagnose their loved furry friends, and treat them. When dining at Redstone, customers will be able to see which food items — like starter and entree size Caesar salad, Thai chicken flatbread, turkey burger — are included in the fundraiser. Some popular cocktails and mocktails are also slated to be included, such as “Tito’s Lemon-Aid”, one of Redstone’s most popular cocktails, “Fall Is About to Be-Gin”, and the “Autumn Lemonade” mocktail. “At Redstone we love giving back to the community whether raising money for great causes or cooking at events that can bring people together,” says Mike Musselman, Redstone’s vice president of operations. “We chose Phinney’s because of its reputation as a local, well-rated nonprofit, which means a lot as we decide who to partner up with. We are pet people at Redstone and even have a few dogs in the Corporate Office every single day, so we’re thrilled the money will go to a good cause,” he adds. PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends) is an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping people in Massachusetts keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. In addition to the Godparents Program, Phinney’s provides much-needed assistance to those experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships and mental and physical impairments through its EverCare, Pet Boost, and Emergency programs. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to 617.979.8705 or complete the form at www.phinneys.org/contact-us. Redstone American Grill, Inc. The rugged, yet romantic atmosphere of Redstone American Grill is perfect for any occasion -- an intimate dinner, a business lunch, drinks outside on the patio, or Sunday brunch. Redstone features bold American cuisines using a wood burning rotisserie and open flame grill where its signature chicken, seasonal fish, and perfectly aged steaks are prepared. Visit redstonegrill.com/restaurants/burlington to learn more. Phinney’s, a Massachusetts nonprofit celebrating 25 years of helping low-income people keep their pets, will launch its Holiday activities at the Lincoln Arts Show 2021. The event, organized by Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department, will take place Nov. 5-7 from 12 p.m to 5 p.m. at the Pierce House.
Phinney’s will be there on Saturday and Sunday, selling hand-painted Holiday ornaments and Department 56 ceramic houses to support the neediest pets in its program. That will also be the weekend that Phinney's will light up Phinney's Angels Tree on the grounds of the historic mansion. The plump blue spruce will be decorated with hand-painted ornaments of 15 pets in need and will welcome more ornaments as the Holiday season progresses. During the Arts Show, people will be able to purchase Phinney’s watercolor ornaments to take home, give to others, or hang on the tree outside. After the event, the ornaments will be sold at phinneys.org. People can scan the QR code on the sign next to Phinney's Angels Tree to reach the website as well. With a minimum $25 donation, the donor will get a holiday ornament of the sponsored pet, painted in watercolor, and may choose to either have the ornament hung on the Phinney’s Angels Tree, displaying a unique chosen message, to have it shipped to the donor or to anyone else, as a special Holiday gift. “Phinney’s Angels Tree will hopefully offer a safe way to celebrate the spirit of giving while we still weather this pandemic,” says Daniela Caride, Phinney's president. “It will be a lovely outing for people who are going for walks, a picnic, or want to say a prayer for a loved one who touched their lives.” PHINNEY'S ANGELS TREE NOV 6 2021 - JAN 31, 2022, dusk to 9:30 pm PIERCE PARK - 17 Weston Rd, Lincoln MA Be it an elderly dog with cancer who lives with an HIV-positive loving owner, or a lively cat who keeps her owner with cerebral palsy company, all Phinney's godpets have stories of resilience that demonstrate the strong connection and love people share with their pets. The stories and pictures of the pets featured on the Angels Tree are posted at Phinneys.org. LINCOLN ARTS SHOW NOV 5 - 7, 2021, 12-5 pm (Friday reception from 5-7pm) PIERCE HOUSE - 17 Weston Rd, Lincoln MA The Lincoln-based art show will feature 2- and 3-D creations made by town-affiliated artists and artisans of all ages. The art, ranging from paintings and photographs, to pottery and hand crafts, will be for display or sale, depending on the wish of the artist. PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends) is an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping people in Massachusetts keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. In addition to the Godparents Program, Phinney’s provides much-needed assistance to those experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships and mental and physical impairments through its EverCare, Pet Boost, and Emergency programs. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to 617.979.8705 or complete the form at www.phinneys.org/contact-us. (Lincoln, MA, September 28, 2021) – The Shirley S. Windsor Charitable Trust has awarded a $5,000 grant to Phinney’s, a nonprofit that helps low-income people in Massachusetts keep their pets.
The Shirley S. Windsor Charitable Trust was established in 1997 to honor the memory of Shirley Shattuck Windsor, who wanted the trust to provide support for animals as well as people in financial need. "We are humbled to have been chosen as a 2021 grant recipient," says Phinney’s President, Daniela Caride. "Knowing that Ms. Windsor wanted to make sure that animals are lovingly cared for, we feel our cause perfectly aligns with her wishes." This funding has come at a critical time, according to Caride. “The pandemic has hit hard so many worthy nonprofits and those we serve. This grant is godsent and will help us continue to pay for veterinary bills coming from pet owners who can’t afford them.” To learn more about Phinney's, visit phinney.org. And for more information about the Shirley S. Windsor Charitable Trust, visit windsorcharitabletrust.org. ABOUT PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends) is an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping people in Massachusetts keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. In addition to the Godparents Program, Phinney’s provides much-needed assistance to those experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships and mental and physical impairments through its EverCare, Pet Boost, and Emergency programs. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to 617.979.8705 or complete the form at www.phinneys.org/contact-us. (Lincoln, MA, July 26, 2021) – Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends, Inc.), a nonprofit that helps low-income people in Massachusetts keep their pets, is gearing up for its 8th annual Phinney’s Ride–a biennial fundraiser to help those living with HIV and AIDS care for their pets.
Up until 2021, Roger Peduzzi, a recently retired veterinarian, and his team of passionate bicyclists, led the charge for raising funds through Phinney’s Ride. To celebrate the nonprofit’s 25th anniversary, Phinney’s invites everyone to participate by performing any type of ride between September 1 and November 1, 2021, and tag @PhinneysFriends and use #phinneysride on social media when sharing photos of their rides. “People seem to be getting gradually more comfortable to go back to activities with the recent decrease in COVID-19 cases in Massachusetts, but not everyone may want to ride a bike,” says Daniela Caride, Phinney’s president. “So we are encouraging people who want to participate to fundraise by doing whatever kind of ride they want. Maybe it’s a daytrip in the car, a boat ride, a recumbent bike ride, a hayride. Anything, really!” she adds.“The point is to be more inventive and encourage people to get out and be active for a great cause in whatever way they feel comfortable.” The registration fee for Phinney’s Ride is $20 with a pledge to raise $200 or more. Individuals can also form teams with family, friends, and coworkers. And, everyone who registers will get a personalized web page with photos and their bio, which they can direct their ride sponsors to. This year also marks the introduction of the Phinney’s Ride “Couch Potato Hero Certificate,” which gives those who don’t want to ride the option of showing their support with a donation of $100 or more. Corporate sponsorship opportunities are available ranging from $250 to $5,000, and details on sponsorship packages can be found at shorturl.at/deEGO. According to a study released by the American Fitness Index, Boston is among the top 10 fittest cities in the U.S., making Phinney’s Ride a great opportunity to mesh together two worthwhile causes — being active and caring for pets. Phinney’s Ride began as a biennial 150-mile ride that Dr. Peduzzi organized from Stow Mass. to Fitzwilliam N.H. over two days, based on a riding plan they followed from their previous charitable challenges with other nonprofit. This year, Dr. Peduzzi’s team will ride 80 miles on September 11-12, traveling from Bristol to Little Compton in Rhode Island, stopping to rest and re-energize along the way. “Even if someone doesn’t want to do a lengthy bike ride like Roger’s team is doing, we’re hopeful that our expanded vision for Phinney’s Ride will encourage people to get creative with how they want to contribute,” Caride says. To learn more, visit phinneys.org/ride. ABOUT PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends) is an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping people in Massachusetts keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. In addition to the Godparents Program, Phinney’s provides much-needed assistance to those experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships and mental and physical impairments through its EverCare, Pet Boost, and Emergency programs. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to 617.979.8705 or complete the form at www.phinneys.org/contact-us.html. Become Top Dog in Your Kitchen: Phinney’s Virtual Cooking Class To Be Hosted by Cordon Bleu Pastry Chef
(Lincoln, MA, May 7, 2021) – Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends), a nonprofit that helps low-income people in Massachusetts with their pets, will host Kibbles and Nibbles: Online Cooking Class May 23 from 7 to 8 p.m. EDT via Google Meet. The pandemic caused many people to change the way they eat, and there are several reasons why people are turning to home-cooking including financial constraints, feeling unsafe to eat out as well as working from home. A study conducted by Bloomberg News and Morning Consult found that almost a third of those surveyed said they planned to continue to cook at home regardless of restrictions being lifted. TikTok trends, social media, and YouTube videos this past year have confirmed the prevalence of home cooking. Just as more and more people turn to the Internet for meal ideas, Phinney’s is launching Kibbles and Nibbles: Online Cooking Class, hosted by Cordon Bleu pastry chef Mika McDonald, who trained in France. With an eye for detail and a unique artistic vision, chef McDonald specialized in artisan sugar cubes, which set her business in motion, Fantasy Sugar. Chef McDonald will guide attendees in the creation of two delectable treats - oat cake and parmesan cheese crisps - that can be both enjoyed by pets and people. She will share her culinary techniques step-by-step so those watching can follow and cook alongside her. With simple ingredients and tools that can be found in most pantries, this cooking class is suitable for novices and professionals alike. Virtual classes have also become more popular during the pandemic as it is an alternative way to enjoy activities safely as well as an easy gift idea that can bring people together online. And with more people being at home with their furry friends, a virtual cooking class for humans and Fido was eventual; the perfect blend of fun and practical recipe learning that can be used over and over again. “We realized that people are online now more than ever, and the option to have fun, stress-free activities to do together online are in demand,” says Daniela Caride, Phinney's president. “Also, cooking is universal and brings people together. With Mother’s Day around the corner, people are looking for unique ways to shower their moms with love,” she adds. A minimum of $10 donation to Phinney’s secures a spot in the class, which has limited space and is designed for all ages and experience levels. Information on how to register can be found at phinneys.org/kibbles-nibbles, where the ingredients and kitchen tools for the class are also listed. ABOUT PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends) is an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping people in Massachusetts keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. In addition to the Godparents Program, Phinney’s provides much-needed assistance to those experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships and mental and physical impairments through its EverCare, Pet Boost, and Emergency programs. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to 617.979.8705 or complete the form at www.phinneys.org/contact-us.html. PHINNEY’S NAMED ‘2021 TOP-RATED NONPROFIT’ By GreatNonProfits
Lincoln, MA (April 6, 2021) -- Phinney’s, a nonprofit that helps low-income people keep their pets, has been named a “2021 Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, a leading website for community recommendations of charities. “The pandemic has been challenging for small nonprofits like us, and we are honored to be named a 2021 Top-Rated Nonprofit,” said Daniela Caride, Phinney’s President. “This honor is a testament to our volunteers, who tirelessly work to avoid pet surrenders and increase the quality of life of pet owners in crisis.” The Top-Rated Nonprofit Award is based on the rating and number of reviews that Phinney’s received from volunteers, donors, and aid recipients. “I know that every dollar I contribute goes straight to helping a pet in need of food or medical care," said donor Maureen Harmonay, a Coldwell Banker real estate agent. “The people at the helm of Phinney’s have the highest integrity and devote themselves tirelessly to helping people and animals who have nowhere else to turn. They need and deserve our support.” Phinney’s is a great example of a nonprofit making a real difference in their community,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits. “Their award is well-deserved recognition not only of their work, but the tremendous support they receive, as shown by the many outstanding reviews they have received from people who have direct experience working with Phinney’s.” Phinney’s has been helping low-income pet owners with pet care, financial help for veterinary bills and boarding since 1996. Since then, the nonprofit has expanded its coverage from greater Boston to the entire state of Massachusetts and has even helped pet owens in neighboring states. The effects of COVID-19 decreased the chances of fundraising with the cancellation of physical events, bringing the number of contributions down. As a result, Phinney’s has had to shift its giving programs to solely online for now. “This has tested Phinney's and the resolve of our donors and volunteers,” said Caride. Despite the odds, though, “we have survived and are more energized than ever to be part of the solution.” - More - GreatNonprofits is the largest donation website for nonprofits and where people share stories about their personal experiences on more than 1.6 million charities and nonprofits. The GreatNonprofits Top-Rated Awards are the only awards for nonprofits determined by those who have direct experience with the charities–as donors, volunteers, and recipients of aid. The complete list of 2021 Top Rated Nonprofits can be found at: https://greatnonprofits.org/awards/browse/Campaign:Year2021/Issue:All/Page:1. About Phinney’s Phinney’s is an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit that believes in keeping people and their beloved pets together. We do this by extending a helping hand to pet parents in need. We do everything in our power to make sure animals and their beloved people can stay together by educating pet parents, taking their animals to the vet if needed, helping to pay vet bills, fostering when people are hospitalized, walking dogs, and otherwise helping to care for pets on a regular basis. About GreatNonprofits GreatNonprofits is the leading site for donors and volunteers to find stories and ratings of nonprofits. Stories on the site influence 30 million donation decisions a year. Visit www.greatnonprofits.org for more information. Stretching Support for a Cause: Phinney’s to Host Livestream Cat Yoga Class March 28
(Groton, MA, March 19, 2021) – Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends), a nonprofit serving pet parents in Massachusetts experiencing hardships, will host MeowMaste: Do Yoga with Cats! March 28 from 7 to 8 p.m. EDT via Google Meet. According to the National Institute for Health (NIH) interacting with animals can decrease cortisol, a stress-producing hormone, and lower blood pressure. Studies have also found that spending time with animals can reduce loneliness, increase feelings of social support, and boost a person’s mood. “During these tough COVID times, we decided that hosting a virtual yoga session where participants can interact online with a group of well-poised felines would be a great way to give cat enthusiasts, seasoned yogis, and those with a general curiosity about the featured cats or yoga generally a fulfilling and healthful experience while supporting Phinney’s,” said Daniela Caride, Phinney’s president. “Cats are generally so limber, and there’s a lot we humans can learn from their flexibility,” Caride added. According to Cornell’s Center for Materials Research, a cat’s limber spine is the reason behind the cat’s graceful and acrobatic escapades. The ability to easily move, contort, and bend also contributes to a cat’s momentum when running. Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that yoga can help improve strength, balance, and flexibility, and Mayo Clinic research shows that yoga can help with anxiety, chronic illness, and depression. “We’re excited to bring together cat lovers, and anyone who may be curious about cats, at this virtual, fun-filled class focused on health and well-being,” Caride said. “This is an opportunity to learn some yoga poses that can help with balance, coordination, focus, and movement—all while enjoying their feline classmates during this one-of-a-kind experience that supports Phinney’s mission.” A $10 donation to Phinney’s secures a spot in the class, which has limited space and is designed for all ages and experience levels. Information on how to register can be found at phinneys.org/meowmaste. ABOUT PHINNEY’S Phinney’s (aka Phinney’s Friends) is an all-volunteer registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping people in Massachusetts keep their pets by providing financial support and pet-caregiving assistance. In addition to the Godparents Program, Phinney’s provides much-needed assistance to those experiencing ongoing or temporary financial hardships and mental and physical impairments through its EverCare, Pet Boost, and Emergency programs. Those in need of Phinney’s services may call or fax their request for assistance to 617.979.8705 or complete the form at www.phinneys.org/contact-us.html. |
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