An art exhibition, handmade jewellery, dancing and a visit from some very special four-legged guests helped raise more than €1,700 for two animal charities at a community event held at El Soto last Saturday, October 10.
Organised by artists and animal lovers Oksana Kocuriene, known as Roxanne, and Lesley Lawrence, the mini-event brought together local residents, creative talents and volunteers united by their love of animals. The event raised €881.25 for ACE|SHIN (Animal Care España|Spaanse Honden In Nood) and the same amount for Donkey Dreamland, bringing the combined total to €1,762.50. Volunteers also collected a further €189 through donations and sales of charity cards and calendars.
Helping abandoned and neglected animals
ACE|SHIN is an animal rescue organisation working in southern Spain to help dogs and cats that have been abandoned, neglected or mistreated. Founded in 1999, it provides shelter, food and veterinary treatment for animals in need, with the ultimate goal of finding them loving permanent homes.
The charity operates shelters in Mijas Costa and Algeciras, caring for hundreds of dogs and cats. Some arrive as strays, while others have been abandoned by their owners or rescued from situations where their lives were at risk. ACE|SHIN also promotes animal welfare, responsible care and sterilisation programmes to help prevent further suffering. Its work relies on donations, volunteers and supporters rather than Spanish government subsidies. More information about its rescue work and animals available for adoption can be found at www.ace-charity.org. Donkey Dreamland, the other beneficiary, provides care for donkeys and other animals in need.
Local artists put their talents to good use
Five artists contributed to the exhibition, with Roxanne and Lesley joined by Kelly Glithro, Anfisa Zinchenko and Margaritha Meus. Visitors could also browse handmade jewellery and macramé created by Gabriela Cervantes and Angelique Roelse-Vis, who donated some of their sales proceeds to the fundraising effort. Two students from Ireland, Ksenija and Anna, helped throughout the day by selling books and golf balls to raise money for the charities. Later in the afternoon, Marisa and Niko organised dance lessons, adding another activity to a programme designed to bring people together for a good cause.
Volunteers from ACE|SHIN and Donkey Dreamland ran a small market, giving visitors the chance to find out more about their work and support the animals in their care. The donkeys themselves were also present, providing a special attraction for guests.
Community spirit made the difference
Organisers thanked everyone who contributed, from the artists and stallholders to the volunteers and visitors who attended. For those involved, the money raised was about more than the final figures. It was also a reminder of what a community can achieve when people contribute their time, skills and enthusiasm to a shared cause. Their message was one of gratitude to everyone who helped make the day possible, with the hope that similar community efforts will continue to support animals in need.