Walnut Creek has long been home to a heartwarming saga of animal rescue, first championed by baseball icon Tony La Russa and his wife Elaine 32 years ago. On Valentine’s Day, the organization formerly known as ARF—Animal Rescue Foundation—revealed its new identity as Joybound and commitment to carrying on its legacy of compassion. Since its inception, the non-profit has helped nearly 50,000 dogs and cats find new homes.

“If you’ve ever seen a dog give a happy wag or a cat lovingly nuzzle up to its person, you’ve seen Joybound in action,” said CEO Susan Lee Vick. “The name Joybound reflects our longstanding commitment to supporting strong human-animal bonds to bring greater health and happiness to dogs, cats, and their human families.”

Joybound’s spirit of rescue and rehabilitation remains undiminished, supported by a passionate staff and team of volunteers. Their efforts to foster bonds between animals and humans touches the lives of children, seniors, veterans, and people in under resourced communities.

Join Joybound and over ten other animal rescue organizations on Saturday, February 17, 11am to 3pm, for “Unleash the Love” Adopt-a-Thon. Food trucks, adoptable pets, food trucks, face painting, therapy animals, complimentary ice cream, and an abundance of community cheer. Free microchipping for the first 100 pets. 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek