Red River College Creative Communications students will see months of planning go to the dogs (and cats) next weekend, as they take to the airwaves in support of the Winnipeg Humane Society.

On Saturday, March 25, CreComm students will produce and host the six-hour 1001 Donations telethon, airing live on Shaw (and streaming on the WHS Facebook page) from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The second-year students — representing all four streams of the CreComm program (journalism, advertising, public relations and broadcasting) — have already produced a series of pre-recorded pieces that will air during the telethon, and will also serve as technical crew and on-air talent while broadcasting live from the Humane Society’s facility on Hurst Way.

“Our students are extremely talented, and this telethon will give them a well-deserved opportunity to showcase those talents and help a great cause at the same time,” says CreComm instructor Joanne Kelly.

“We’re always looking for opportunities for students to gain real-life experience so they’ll be that much more prepared for the workforce upon graduation. This telethon also helps teach them the value of being connected to your community, and how important it is to give back.”

Red River College is a proud sponsor of the telethon, which is open to the public and will feature appearances from special guests including Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman, Winnipeg Blue Bomber Matthias Goossen, and CTV anchor Maralee Caruso, who adopted her dog Jack from the Humane Society.

“The students’ stories highlight the power of each donation and the compassion of our dedicated staff and volunteers. CreComm students play an essential role in bringing the telethon to life and helping us save more animals,” says Alyssa Kost, WHS Special Events Officer (and a CreComm grad herself).

“The telethon is a major event for the WHS and raises essential funds to support the care of over 8,000 abandoned, neglected and helpless animals each year.”

This year’s fundraising goal is $40,000, with all pledges to be matched by a group of WHS donors.

To make a donation, tune in during the telethon and follow the call-in instructions, text RESCUE to 401010, or visit winnipeghumanesociety.ca.