Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
West Coast Eagles forward Archer Reid has swapped the football field for the animal shelter, joining RSPCA WA as its newest ambassador.
The 20-year-old Eagle will use his growing profile to raise awareness of animal welfare and help support the organisation’s work rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming vulnerable animals across the State.
His appointment comes as RSPCA WA prepares for its biggest fundraising day of the year, with the footballer calling on WA businesses to get behind the charity’s Give to Get Them Home campaign in October.
The campaign has set an ambitious fundraising target of $400,000, with all donations doubled through matched giving partners.
“I’ve always loved animals, so when the opportunity came up to support RSPCA WA and the work they do, it was an easy yes,” Reid said.
“I’m looking forward to getting involved and hopefully helping more people understand what goes into giving animals who’ve had a tough start a second chance.”
Reid said dogs had always been part of his family while growing up, making his new role a natural fit.
He has already visited RSPCA WA’s Malaga facility, spending time with some of the animals currently waiting for new homes, including rabbit Bentley, English Staffy Sadie, Maltese-Shih Tzu cross Mochi and nine-week-old-kitten Springbok.
RSPCA WA spokesperson Lou Rowe said Reid had shown a clear affection for the animals during his visit.
“Archer is part of an exciting new generation at the Eagles and we’re delighted he’s chosen to use his profile to help animals who desperately need someone in their corner,” Ms Rowe said.
“Our ambassadors help us reach new audiences and generate support for the thousands of animals who need us every year, and we’re really looking forward to having Archer on board.”
Reid will join fellow ambassadors including West Coast Eagles AFLW player Courtney Rowley and West Coast Fever assistant coach Sharni Layton.
He is also using his platform to encourage WA businesses to become matched givers for the October campaign.
“The Eagles are incredibly lucky to have so many WA businesses and people who get behind the club and make a real difference,” he said.
“I’d love to see some of that same generosity thrown behind RSPCA WA and the animals they care for.
“Becoming a matched giver means you’re not just making your own contribution — you’re encouraging thousands of other West Australians to give because they know their donation will go twice as far.”
Ms Rowe said matched giving was crucial to reaching the charity’s $400,000 target.
“Give to Get Them Home is our single biggest donation day of the year with an ambitious target of $400,000 this year — that simply wouldn’t be possible without businesses and individuals willing to put up those matching funds,” she said.
“We’d love Archer’s call to inspire some new members of WA’s business community to join us this October.”
