C.A.R.E. Strut for Strays

Strut for Strays is Community Animal Rescue Effort’s annual walk and fundraiser for homeless pets. Now in its fourth decade, the event gives C.A.R.E. supporters a chance to walk together in the northern suburbs or participate on their own while raising money for the organization’s cats and dogs.

The hybrid format makes the fundraiser accessible beyond the in-person gathering. Participants can join the kickoff walk, choose their own route during the event period or support another walker’s campaign. However someone takes part, the focus remains on helping C.A.R.E. continue its rescue and adoption work.

Walk Together in Skokie or Choose Your Own Route

The in-person portion begins at McGrath Evanston Subaru and follows the Northshore Sculpture Path for approximately 2.5 miles. It offers C.A.R.E. supporters a shared starting point and an opportunity to meet other people who care about the organization’s work.

People who cannot attend the kickoff can complete their own walk between September 19 and September 26. That may mean walking through a neighborhood, visiting a favorite trail or choosing a distance that suits the participant and any dog joining them.

Fundraising for C.A.R.E.’s Rescue Pets

Strut for Strays raises money for Community Animal Rescue Effort, an all-volunteer nonprofit that has served companion animals since 1987. C.A.R.E. operates an adoption center in Skokie and works to place cats and dogs in permanent homes while providing education and support to the community.

Registration, donations and participant fundraising help sustain that work. C.A.R.E. also offers sponsorship opportunities for businesses and other supporters that want to contribute at a larger level.

Planning for the Walk

Participants joining in person should check C.A.R.E.’s event page shortly before September 19 for registration, check-in, parking and weather information. Anyone bringing a dog should use a secure leash and consider whether the dog will be comfortable walking near unfamiliar people and animals.

Virtual walkers have more flexibility, but they should still plan a safe route, bring water and avoid pavement temperatures that may be uncomfortable for a dog’s paws. This page will remain at the same address and will be updated when the next Strut for Strays is announced.