Waterville’s Humane Society Hosts Hilarious Online ‘Jordan’s Way’ Fundraiser

Humane Societies across the nation have had to get creative when it comes to fundraising, in the wake of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Many of these organizations, who in the past have relied heavily on donations and fundraising events, had to close to the public last year, for fear of spreading the virus. Because of this, they lost out on many of the opportunities that would have otherwise brought dollars through their doors.

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But it seems some of our local humane societies have taken to thinking outside of the box, this year, when it comes to their fundraising efforts. Some are even getting support from amazing folks across the nation, working to raise money to help animals in need.

One such individual, who has made it his life's work to help honor a shelter dog named Jordan, who became his best friend, is a man by the name of Kris Rotonda. Rotonda started a charity called Jordan's Way, and tours the nation helping organizations like the Humane Society Waterville Area, raise the money they desperately need to provide for the animals they take in.

"Jordan’s Way is on a 50 State Tour where they are hosting events nationwide to raise funds and help animals get adopted. When they needed a paw, we offered a hand,” Rotonda said.

Through a combination of silly and ridiculous challenges, streamed live on Facebook, Rotonda has helped the folks from the Humane Society Waterville Area almost meet this year's goal fundraising goal.

Lisa Oakes, Executive Director at the Humane Society, said this is the first year they have worked with the Jordan's Way Charities, but it won't be the last.

“We’re prepared to be silly, play games and ultimately find every animal a home. We invite local businesses and individuals will donate to the shelter on air. The shelter has a goal of raising $15,000 during the event and all donors will be recognized on air."

During one four hour stint, Rotonda did everything from facilitate pie-in-the-face challenges and egg-cracking challenges to giving folks a tour of every the cat and dog at the facility (while spoiling them all with treats and love.)

One particular livestream which had me cracking up this morning, featured a guy volunteering to lay on the floor, have cheese whiz sprayed on his face and allow puppies to lick it off of him. (Although one particularly hungry pup tried to bite off more than he could chew-and left the man with a bit of a bloody nose. But it all for the dogs and kitties, right?!)

There is no doubt that these folks are committed to helping all the animals in their care find forever homes. And they do the best they can to take care of the furry friends who end up in their facility. If you feel moved to, there's a donate button right on the Facebook page.

Nationwide, Rotonda says Jordan's Way has helped raise over a million dollars for animal shelters across the US, so far, in 2021.

We hope the fundraiser turns out to be as successful for the Humane Society Waterville Area as it has been entertaining to watch. And we look forward to tuning in again next year.