Editorial: September 6, 2024
Take The Lead at 31
The origins of Take The Lead started on the weekend of the Westchester Kennel Club 31 years ago. Those founding members realized that some in our sport needed assistance, and their vision has grown and prospered. So it is only fitting that this week’s editorial updates the great and unwavering help it has given those in our sport with the immediate financial help they might need in times of misfortune and ill health. As a charity, contributors want to know how the funds are used. To that end we are reprinting an update written by board member and, without question in our opinion, their hardest-working member, Mari-Beth O’Neill. Special thanks to Mari-Beth for sharing the information below.
Take The Lead is celebrating its 31st anniversary this September. The organization was founded to provide assistance to those who needed financial assistance to pay bills if suffering from a life-threatening illness. In the 31 years since the inaugural event held Westchester weekend, the organization has distributed more than $7.5 million, paying bills to alleviate the concerns of those suffering with health issues, and unfortunately in some instances assisting families with funeral expenses. In 2023, TTL distributed $318,322.45 in assistance.
This is a grass-roots organization; all the funds have come from support from those in the fancy, through annual memberships as well as from the raffles and other fundraising events held throughout the country during the year. We are anticipating the return of the TTL party after the groups Monday night at Westminster; stay tuned for additional details.
The organization is grateful for all the support it has received over the years, and please be aware and encourage anyone who may be in need of assistance to apply. Should you have any questions about applying, please contact the office at 800-814-1123.
There will be a membership booth with a raffle at Somerset and Westchester this weekend as well as additional booths this fall launching the 2025 membership pin on Montgomery County weekend.