Zumba Party Benefits Shelter Animals

With the large number of animals housed in shelters and the small funds on which to support these animals, it's a daily struggle to provide every animal with the proper care that it needs to survive, according toRedlands Friends of Shelter Animals (REDFOSA) ally Marie Ynami. Ynami's Zumba studio (Studio Ynami) recently partnered together with REDFOSA for two reasons: to raise awareness of the overcrowding of animal shelters in the area; and to raise funds to help shelter employees provide these animals with the type of care and love necessary for a healthy life. Ynami was introduced to the idea after a Zumba student who is also a REDFOSA employee, pitched the idea to use her Zumba studio to help a larger cause. The end result was the "Zumba Party to Benefit Animals," which ran Dec. 14 at the Zumba studio in Redlands. Donations were received by the dozens, with those making a $10 or more donation also being entered into a raffle drawing. Agness Ferrara was a contributor that day and is also a REDFOSA employee. “It's important to raise money for the animal shelter because it gives animals the medicine that they need, better equipment for the workers, and comfortable beds for the animals,” Ferrara said. "I’m so glad we are having this fundraiser. The shelter really needs it." To start the class, Ynami introduced herself and readied the others to begin. As the music began, she started out slow to get the muscles warmed up. As each song played, her movements got progressively faster and the class followed. She kept up with words of encouragement. “Come on ladies, work those hips for the animals at the shelter," she said. "You can do it.” Between 30 minute sessions, Ynami chose winners for the raffles. Winners walked away with prizes ranging from gift cards to hair care products and more. When the class was over, a round of applause roared through the studio. Robin Gosney, a Zumba dancer that evening, said, “I’ve never tried Zumba before and have always wanted to try it. I am so glad that I got the chance. It was for a good cause.” Ynami felt the event was a success — getting people out to support a cause close to her heart, she said.