The Foundation for TJO Animals Annual Ride Like an Animal Motorcycle Run raises over $20,000 to Benefit Animals at Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center

October 2, 2025

SPRINGFIELD, MA – The Foundation for TJO Animals held its annual Ride Like an Animal Motorcycle Run on September 20 raising over $20,000 to benefit animals at the TJO Animal Control &Adoption Center.  

With spectacular weather for the day, over 150 motorcycle enthusiasts participated in the signature event for the Foundation, enjoying a scenic ride through western Mass culminating with an after-party celebration at the Ludlow Elks. The Foundation surpassed their goal and raised over $20,000 in support of their mission. Riders and party goers enjoyed live music, a BBQ lunch, raffles, games, and vendors.

Janna Brown, executive director for the Foundation for TJO Animals said, "We had an incredible event with more people participating than we've ever seen. Everyone came out to give the Ride Like an Animal fundraiser a beautiful send off! I would like to thank Mayor Sarno for coming to speak in the morning, our emcee Pat Kelly, Charlotte for singing a gorgeous National Anthem, our riders, our Ride captains from BACA, our band the Berkshires, our sponsors, volunteers - the list goes on! And Pioneer Valley Rider Training donated about 100 raffles that helped us surpass our fundraising goal!".

Sponsors for this year’s event included Fontaine Community Foundation, Florence Bank, Pioneer Valley Rider Training, Heather Heeb-Keller Williams, the Good Dog Spot and Curry Honda. Media sponsors include Rock 102and Lazer 99.3.

The Foundation for TJO Animals raises funds to provide resources and support for critical veterinary care and enrichment for the animals at the Thomas J O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization and depends on the generosity of its supporters to achieve its goals.