The Animal Rescue Fund, ARF, celebrated its first year of fundraising for organizations "that help animals in need" by distributing over $70,000 in grants.

ARF President Karen Rockwood said that the first year "exceeded all the hopes and expectations of our board of directors."

Events Chair, Ursula Landsrath, added "we are so very grateful for the many generous, caring people who contributed to our organization. Three ARF events this year included a 'Ladies Garden Party' in May, a 'Stag Dinner' and a fabulous 'Estate Sale' in November. Attendance at each event was more than we had dared hope."

Virginia-based organizations were asked to submit Grant Applications for specific programs to ARF.

Recipients of 2011 Grants include: The Blue Ridge Wildlife Center for the purchase of food and medical supplies. The Equine Rescue League Foundation for vet and medical expenses. Reesie's Project Outreach for food, medical care and boarding fees. The Fauquier SPCA, Inc. for an Oxygen Concentrator. Cause Fur Paws to sterilize and vaccinate feral cats. The Middleburg Humane Foundation for pharmaceuticals and vaccines. The Gingersnap Girls for feed and vet. The Virginia German Shepherd Rescue for medical care and short term boarding. Mountain View Humane Spay/Neuter for spay and neuter services. People for Pets Foundation for repairs and update of storm damaged buildings. Friends of Homeless Animals for a security and fencing system. The Appalachian Great Pyrenees Rescue for medicines and special needs.

"The fact that we are all volunteers is what makes ARF so successful," Ursula added. "People know that their donations are not spent on wages and overhead."

Karen Rockwood added "ARF is a group of animal loving volunteers who have joined forces to raise funds to help support local animal shelters and welfare organizations who must fundraise constantly in addition to caring for animals in need. Our objective is to both help these organizations financially and to save them the time and human resources expended in fundraising."

ARF urges those who love animals, have spare time, and wish to volunteer to help "those who help animals in need" to email ARF at: ARF@arfrescue.org or call 540-364-9123. Learn more about the organization at www.arfrescue.org