ABOUT ANIMEND
MISSION
AniMend helps animals
by providing support to animal shelters
through impact-focused fundraising,
needs-responsive supply sourcing,
and community-powered volunteering,
with integrity, passion, and dedication.
OUR STORY
AniMend was founded in Arlington Heights, IL on August 26th 2025 by 15 year old Cadence Christenson.
"Before AniMend, I ran a fundraiser in fourth grade to support a local homeless shelter. In middle school, I started a club that raised awareness and made toys for animal shelters in the area. These projects allowed me to discover and explore how I could make real change and pursue my love of animals through service. The experience I gained ultimately lead me to create AniMend in order to make a true difference in the lives of animals. My two greatest passions are animals and creating change. AniMend is the culmination of those lifelong passions. "
- Cadence Christenson, Founder and President of AniMend
Cadence and a handful of dedicated friends planned to run a lemonade stand for two days each month in the summer of 2025 with the goal of raising $600 to cover the fees of registering a non-profit. In the first two days of opening, they raised over $1600. This allowed AniMend to register with the state of Illinois and the Federal Government as a 501(c)(3) non-profit. This initial fundraiser also allowed AniMend to build a website and create custom donation boxes. These donation boxes were used in our first annual Fall Supply Drive at Bentley's PetStuff Arlington Heights and PetSmart Schaumburg. A donation box was also filled at South Middle School's "Comedy For A Cause" event. These first two supply drives collected 721 items which were delivered to six local animal shelters, benefitting over 1000 animals.
OUR TEAM
Meet the Board of Directors running AniMend!
Our team plays a crucial role in planning, organizing, and otherwise ensuring that AniMend supports animal shelters effectively.
