In early January 2025, the Palisades Fire ravaged parts of Los Angeles, evacuating over 30,000 residents and causing significant damage to more than 1,000 structures. Amidst this chaos, CBS Sports reporter and golf analyst Amanda Balionis took swift action to support affected animals, showcasing her unwavering commitment to animal welfare.
Immediate Response to the Crisis
On January 8, 2025, Balionis utilized her Instagram platform, where she has a substantial following, to raise awareness about the plight of animals endangered by the wildfire. She shared a story from the Canine Rescue Club, an organization dedicated to rehabilitating and rescuing needy dogs. In her post, Balionis urged her Southern California followers to assist, stating, “For all my SoCal friends, here is a way to help right now.”
Much like Balionis’s nonprofit, Puppies and Golf, the Canine Rescue Club collaborates with various rescue centers to provide aid during emergencies, by amplifying their message, Balionis aimed to mobilize immediate support for animals affected by the fire.
Establishing Evacuation Shelters
Beyond raising awareness, Balionis shared information about evacuation shelters set up for both humans and animals displaced by the Palisades Fire. She highlighted the efforts of local organizations working tirelessly to provide safe havens for those in need, ensuring that evacuees had access to necessary resources and support.
Puppies and Golf
Founded in 2020, Puppies and Golf reflects Balionis’s deep-seated passion for animal welfare. The nonprofit organization supports and promotes animal rescue centers across the United States, focusing on connecting rescue dogs with loving homes and assisting military veterans through canine companionship.
Balionis’s inspiration for starting Puppies and Golf stemmed from her visits to animal rescues during her travels. In an interview with Golf Digest, she expressed admiration for the dedication of rescue volunteers, stating, “The amount of work and selfless love that’s put into these dogs and these horrible stories that these dogs have are heartbreaking.”
Fundraising and Community Engagement
Over the years, Puppies and Golf have organized numerous fundraising initiatives to support animal rescue efforts. In 2024, the organization commemorated its fourth anniversary by raising $40,000 through social media campaigns. Additionally, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, they garnered $35,000 to aid affected animals.
Balionis’s active engagement on social media has been instrumental in these efforts. By sharing stories of rescue dogs and highlighting the work of various shelters, she has fostered a community of supporters dedicated to animal welfare.
Broader Commitment to Animal Welfare
Balionis’s dedication extends beyond her nonprofit. She frequently collaborates with other animal welfare organizations, amplifying their messages and contributing to rescue missions. Her involvement in events like National Service Dogs Day with K9s For Warriors underscores her commitment to leveraging her platform for positive impact.
In Summary
Amanda Balionis’s response to the Palisades Fire exemplifies her unwavering commitment to animal welfare. Through immediate action, awareness campaigns, and the ongoing efforts of Puppies and Golf, she continues to impact the lives of animals in need significantly. Her dedication serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the profound difference one individual can make in times of crisis.
