ARL Golf Outing Raises $39,000 for Berks County Animals

Published On: 6/17/2026
Last Updated On: 6/17/2026
By Callie, Seymour, Yebba, Tucker, and Mama and our Hooman Ashley!

BERKS COUNTY, PA — The Animal Rescue League of Berks County recently announced that its 2026 Not Your Grandfather's Golf Outing raised an impressive $39,000 to support animals in need throughout Berks County.

The fundraising total comes just days after golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters gathered at Manor Golf Club for what has become one of the organization's largest annual fundraising events.

For those who attended, the announcement likely comes as little surprise.

During Stray Cat News' coverage of the outing, one thing became clear throughout the day:

This wasn't simply a golf tournament.

It was a community event built around a shared mission.

We met teams that had been friends for more than 55 years.

We spoke with first-time participants and longtime supporters.

We watched local businesses sponsor holes, volunteers coordinate activities, and community members purchase raffle tickets, challenge-hole opportunities, and After PawTee tickets.

While each contribution may have seemed small on its own, together they helped generate $39,000 for the Animal Rescue League's ongoing work.


A Fundraiser Designed for More Than Golfers

One of the most interesting observations from the event was how many participants weren't focused on golf at all.

Some teams were clearly there to compete.

Others were there to spend time with friends, support the ARL, and enjoy a day outdoors.

Interactive challenge holes, sponsor activities, roller derby hecklers, beer-goggle putting contests, and the After PawTee celebration helped create an atmosphere that felt more like a community festival than a traditional golf outing.

That broad appeal may be one reason the event continues to grow.

Participants don't need to be golfers to feel connected to the mission.

They simply need to care about helping animals.


Where the Money Goes

The $39,000 raised will help support the Animal Rescue League's efforts throughout Berks County, including:

  • animal shelter operations

  • veterinary care

  • food and daily supplies

  • adoption programs

  • enrichment and behavioral support

  • rescue and community outreach initiatives

For animal welfare organizations, these community-supported fundraisers often provide critical funding that helps bridge the gap between donations, grants, and daily operational expenses.

More Than a Number

Fundraising totals are easy to measure.

Community impact is harder.

But after spending the day at the outing, it's clear the event succeeds at both.

The final number may be $39,000.

The bigger takeaway is that hundreds of people chose to spend their day supporting animals they may never meet.

And together, that support will make a meaningful difference for the animals who rely on the ARL every day.

What's Next for ARL Supporters?

While the golf outing may be over, supporters won't have to wait long for the next opportunity to help animals in need.

The Animal Rescue League's annual Pet Portrait Art Show is coming to Berks County on June 20, showcasing custom pet portraits created by volunteer artists and celebrating the animals that inspired them.

The exhibit has become one of the organization's most unique fundraising traditions, bringing together local artists, pet lovers, and animal advocates in support of the ARL's mission.


Pet Portrait Art Show

📍 Miller Gallery, Alvernia University

đź“… Saturday, June 20, 2026

⏰ 12 PM – 3 PM

🎟️ Free Admission

Whether you participated in this year's portrait fundraiser, supported the golf outing, or simply love seeing a community rally around animals, the event offers another chance to see that support in action.

Because while the golf outing may have raised $39,000, the work of helping animals in Berks County continues year-round.

And for ARL supporters, the next chapter is already around the corner.


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