Animal rescue groups and organizations provide much needed care and services to lost, abandoned and abused animals in a community. Some animal rescue groups are organized on a very local level, serving only a neighborhood or small town, while others are nationally based. Animal rescue groups often rely on volunteers, as they have limited financial resources. Many also rely on donations and corporate sponsorships. To get corporate sponsorship, carefully plan and execute your pitch for aid.

Draft a mission statement that clearly articulates the goals and purpose of the rescue group. Importantly, set forth what distinguishes the rescue group from others of its kind, if applicable. For instance, state if the group is especially organized to rescue animals abandoned or lost as a result of a natural disaster or if the organization will serve animals other than or in addition to dogs or cats. Make clear what the agenda of the animal rescue is.

Compile research about the animal rescue group, if it is already in existence. For instance, gather data about the number of animals served, the kinds of services provided -- such as rescue, health and adoption services -- and the number of families served. Create statistics to evidence the rescue group's impact in the community. If you are in the process or organizing the rescue group, gather data to emphasize the need for animal rescue services. For instance, cite the number of abandoned animals at the local pound or shelter.

Write letters to local corporations to request sponsorship. Identify the name of the animal rescue and provide a brief summary of its goals and purpose. Include statistics to show the success and impact of the animal rescue group or the demonstrated need for rescue services. Attach a copy of the group's mission statement. Kindly ask the corporation to consider making a financial contribution in the form of a sponsorship.

Explain the kind of sponsorship requested. For instance, indicate if you are requesting a one-time sponsorship contribution or an annual sponsorship to be paid quarterly. Also, indicate if you are requesting sponsorship for general fees and costs of operation or for a special project or initiative.

Provide tiers of sponsorship to allow corporations and business owners to make contributions of which they are capable. Alternatively, allow sponsors to determine the amount of sponsorship. Allow corporations to make gifts in kind, such as donations of vehicles or office equipment, if they are unable or unwilling to commit to a financial sponsorship.

Offer corporations incentives for sponsorship. For instance, offer to name a building or shelter after the corporation, if a certain sponsorship level is reached. Offer to print the business's logo or name on T-shirts worn at or distributed by the rescue workers. List sponsors in the rescue's literature. If requesting sponsorship for a specific event, such as a community walk-a-thon, promote sponsors at the event by giving away stickers, magnets, water bottles or other promotional items on behalf of the corporation.

Tip

Always thank sponsors for their contributions to ensure continued patronage. Show corporations that their sponsorship is valued and meaningful by following up with a letter to show how funds were spent or what the rescue group was able to achieve.