Plush toys are a common incentive for nature and animal nonprofit groups, as the gifts serve as an ideal reminder of what the group is fighting for, often giving a lovable face to a critical mission. So far this year, several new critters have been tracked as premiums from an assortment of organizations beyond wildlife and environmental fundraisers. Are we talking lions, tigers and bears? Oh no, horses, dogs and squirrels!
Historic preservation organization Colonial Williamsburg Foundation debuted a new 6″ tall plush toy horse as a premium given to $35+ donors. Named “Mary,” the foal is an American Cream Draft Horse, which was a vanishing breed that the foundation has helped preserve. These horses work and graze in Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, lending to the re-creation of life in 18th-century Virginia.
Donors of $30+ to National Relief Charities’ Rescue Operation for Animals of the Reservation (ROAR) receive the limited-edition “Rags the Rez Dog” plush toy. The group is dedicated to helping stray and abandoned animals on the largest Indian Reservations in the U.S. In addition to providing food, shelter and foster care, ROAR funds spay and neuter clinics. The furry pooch premium is designed to serve as a reminder of the donors’ commitment to animal welfare or be shared with a child to “teach them why it’s so important to care for our four-legged friends.”
The Central Park Conservancy also has mascots, or “Central Park Pals,” that are available for “adoption” to help the organization keep the park clean and preserve wildlife habitat. Olmstead the owl and Belvedere the squirrel come with an adoption certificate to online donors of $32 ($25 + $7 shipping.) Most recently, Belvedere, named for the castle in Central Park, was featured in a direct mail promotion as a premium with $125 membership.
