On September 23rd, 2010 the JDHF launched the Heigl Rescue Challenge, an initiative aimed at rescue groups in California that focused on social networking awareness. Participants had to encourage friends and supporters to check out the Heigl Foundation and 'Follow' our Official Twitter Page. The winning rescues (those that signed up the most 'Followers') would get to share a total of $10,000 in grants to fund spay/neuter surgeries, rescues or an approved animal welfare project.

The Heigl Rescue Challenge was a great race fueled by our partners who helped increase our follower count by over 500%! Over thirty rescues jumped into the fray and the daily competition was wonderful to watch.

The closing date for the contest was November 29th and we can now announce the winners!

Candi Mitchell (Left) From Boxer Rescue LA Collects The Winning Check Candi Mitchell (Left) From Boxer Rescue LA Collects The Winning Check

First past the post were Boxer Rescue LA who crossed the finish line to claim a $7,000 grant for winning the contest. BRLA representative Candi Mitchell was presented with the check by the Foundation's Executive Director Kathy Davis just before Christmas. She explained that it's been a tough year for donations and a overflow year for dogs, so the grant would be very gratefully received. She indicated that her group had 90 dogs and that they would be able to put the monies to good use - quickly!

Close on their heels and in second place were Southern California Bulldog Rescue. Their racing performance earned them a $3,000 grant and Melissa Kaplan was on hand to collect the check. A school teacher who rescues animals in her spare time, Melissa was thrilled with the runners-up award, explaining that the money would be a "huge help" to the organization.

Melissa Kaplan (Right) From Southern California Bulldog Rescue With Kathy Davis Melissa Kaplan (Right) From Southern California Bulldog Rescue With Kathy Davis

The race was so competitive that the Heigl Foundation decided to award an additional $1000 to the third place contestant Barks Of Love in recognition of their efforts.

Hilary Greenspan (Left) From Barks Of Love Hilary Greenspan (Left) From Barks Of Love

The other winners in this contest are all the pets that can be pulled, spayed or neutered through the grant awards. We know that these three rescue groups will make a difference with their dollars to continue to improve the plight of our pets.

Congratulations to our three winners and our thanks to all of the rescue partners who participated and followed the action. Look out for more fun events in the future!