My first year as ARC Program Director has been incredible and I’m grateful I was given this opportunity! To be able to reach so many people through so many avenues has been amazing. ARC has such a variety of events to help animals, whether we’re helping out at Chicken Run Rescue, having meaningful conversations with people about the benefits of plant-based eating at events like the Healthy Life Expo, talking about the environmental impact of animal agriculture at Sustainability Fairs, or using our virtual reality videos to give people a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of animals.

We organized many protests to stand up for animals who are used for entertainment, experimentation, or clothing and it has been wonderful seeing so many new faces at these events. It’s always great hearing attendees say they were a bit apprehensive about protesting, but were pleasantly surprised by the peaceful way we conduct our demos, and how they feel empowered by getting a chance to take their passion for protecting animals to another level.

Being able to bring people together and build on this community in Minnesota has been a very rewarding aspect of being with ARC. From our twice-a-month volunteer meetings to events like our Hot Dish Cook-Off and Turkey Free Friendsgiving, it’s exciting to see how many people are embracing a vegan lifestyle and I’m looking forward to what 2019 is going to bring. Thank you all for your support and for caring about animals!
– Ashley Riddle, ARC Program Director