By Christine Montanti
There are many noteworthy animal charities but few stories that capture the heart and soul quite like that of Andrea Herrick and her life-defining mission for the organization she founded in 2018, Proud Rescuers of Puerto Rico (PRoud Rescuers of PR).
Andrea’s life transformed by tragedy when her beloved Yorkie Opie James was fatally attacked in a local dog park. In the days that followed, Andrea could have chosen grief but instead, she chose purpose. After Opie James’s passing, Andrea came across a New York Times article about Puerto Rico’s notorious “Dead Dog Beach,” a haunting nickname for a place representative of a humanitarian crisis. For Andrea, this was not only a sign but a calling.
Andrea immediately got involved with Puerto Rico’s abandoned animals and quickly realized the situation was both overwhelming and urgent. There were 600,000 stray dogs and nearly a million cats roaming the streets that were injured, starving, and forgotten but despite this devastating situation, Andrea saw potential. Specifically, she recognized the under-appreciated efforts of local women not only independent and determined, but relentlessly trying to save lives with whatever little means they had. As a result, Proud Rescuers of PR was founded to empower these women and expand their compassionate act of rescue. To date, Proud Rescuers of PR has rescued more than 1,000 dogs and over 1,000 cats, giving them not only shelter and medical care, but a dignified journey to new lives in forever homes.
Currently, Proud Rescuers of PR has future plans to establish the Opie James Sanctuary where dogs and cats can not only heal but thrive. In addition, a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program will assist with reducing the stray population humanely and sustainably.
Andrea has assembled a team that emulates her own strength and compassion. From Adoption Coordinators Katharine Drucker and Theresa Bellafiore to the tireless Luz Santiago overseeing transport logistics, Dianna Michniewicz bringing events to life and Linda Lugo who has already fostered 41 dogs.
Please join Andrea to celebrate this year’s charity event on April 26, 2025, at the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington, NY, for Hounds & Hitters a star-studded fundraiser hosted by Proud Rescuers of PR and Yorkie911 Rescue in collaboration with Gemelli Films.
Be among the first to experience the first episode of HEAVY HITTERS, the highly anticipated new series from Candice Cain, featuring Ted King, Adam Huss, Jason Frederick, and former MLB player Nelson Figueroa. This unforgettable evening will include celebrity appearances, raffle baskets, baseball themed delicious food, and the chance to meet cast members in person.
To purchase tickets to the Hounds & Hitters Charity Event, click on link below:
https://www.facebook.com/share/15Jp7ui3fo/
Follow Proud Rescuers of PR on Facebook & Instagram: @proudrescuers.org
Follow Andrea Herrick on Facebook: Andreaherrick
