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.
FOUNDING
AniMend was founded in Arlington Heights, IL on August 26th 2025 by 15 year old student Cadence Christenson.
"Before AniMend, I ran a fundraiser in 4th 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
Cadence and a handful of dedicated friends planned to run a lemonade stand for 2 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 2 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 7 local animal shelters, benefitting over 1000 animals.